Welcome to the Asking Powerful Questions course where you'll continue your journey to make coaching a habit in daily conversations. Asking powerful questions starts with mastering the Kickstart Question: "What's on your mind?" This unit will guide you through the benefits and application of this fundamental question.

The Kickstart Question, "What's on your mind?", is a simple yet powerful way to initiate meaningful conversations. By asking this open-ended question, you invite the coachee to share their most pressing concerns, setting the stage for a focused and relevant discussion that directly addresses significant issues.

Allowing coachees to choose the topic of conversation fosters autonomy and ensures the discussion is aligned with their immediate needs. This approach not only empowers them but also makes the conversation more engaging and productive by narrowing the focus to what's most critical.

To better understand how the Kickstart Question can be used effectively, here’s a sample dialogue between a coach and a coachee:

• Chris: Hey Jake, good to see you. What's on your mind today?
• Jake: Actually, Chris, I've been thinking a lot about the upcoming client presentation. I'm not sure I'm fully prepared.
• Chris: I see. Can you tell me more about what specific aspects you feel uncertain about?

In this dialogue, Chris effectively uses the Kickstart Question to open the conversation, allowing Jake to highlight his concerns about the client presentation. Chris then invites Jake to delve deeper by asking for specifics, creating a focused and relevant discussion.

Using the Kickstart Question demonstrates a genuine interest in the coachee's perspective, encouraging a more authentic and open dialogue. This validation builds trust and paves the way for a more in-depth conversation. If a coachee brings up a challenging client situation, following up with questions like "Can you explain why this is important to you?" can further deepen the conversation and uncover underlying concerns.

Mastering the Kickstart Question is your first step towards transforming your coaching conversations. Next, you will engage in role-play to practice these techniques, enhancing your ability to foster meaningful and impactful dialogues.