Engaging with the Strategic Question is pivotal in helping individuals recognize the trade-offs involved in their decisions. It's an essential tool for prioritization and ensuring choices align with broader goals.

The Strategic Question asks: "If you’re saying yes to this, what are you saying no to?" It is designed to prompt individuals to consider the opportunity costs associated with their commitments. By illuminating what might need to be deprioritized or abandoned in favor of new tasks or goals, the Strategic Question fosters a deeper awareness of the conscious choices being made.

In coaching conversations, the Strategic Question serves as a powerful tool for reflection and clarity. It helps individuals identify what is most important by forcing them to weigh their current responsibilities against new opportunities. This evaluative approach not only facilitates better decision-making but also encourages a holistic view of one's commitments and resources.

When you use the Strategic Question, it brings clarity to decision-making by highlighting what must be sacrificed with new commitments. For instance, if a direct report is eager to join a new project, posing this question can make them realize they might need to reduce their involvement in other ongoing tasks. This thoughtful evaluation aids in better prioritization.

Let's look at a hypothetical conversation between a manager (Jake) and a direct report (Victoria) to see the Strategic Question in action.

• Jake: Victoria, you mentioned wanting to take the lead on the new marketing campaign. That sounds exciting!
• Victoria: Yes, I'm really interested in it and think I can contribute a lot.
• Jake: If you’re saying yes to this, what are you saying no to?
• Victoria: Hmm, I hadn't thought of that. I guess I would have to scale back my involvement in the current client projects.
• Jake: That's important to consider. How will scaling back affect those projects and the team?

In this dialogue, Jake uses the Strategic Question to help Victoria realize the trade-offs involved in her decision. This prompts her to think critically about her priorities and the broader impact.

The Strategic Question also encourages deeper thinking about the broader implications of one’s choices. It helps individuals weigh the impact on their workload, team, and overall goals, ensuring decisions are made with a comprehensive understanding of potential consequences.

• Jake: How will your decision to scale back on clients projects affect the team?
• Victoria: It might delay some of the deliverables and increase the workload for others.
• Jake: That's a significant impact. Have you thought about how the team will handle the additional pressure?
• Victoria: I suppose I would need to delegate some of my tasks and ensure proper handovers.
• Jake: Do you think the team is ready to take on those additional responsibilities?
• Victoria: I might need to provide some quick training sessions to get them up to speed.

Mastering the Strategic Question will enable you to guide your team in making well-informed decisions, leading to better prioritization and more effective management of their responsibilities. Get ready to apply these insights in our upcoming role-play session to solidify your skills.