The Seven Essential Questions

Quick Reference from The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier

Overview

These seven questions help mentors stay curious longer and resist the “Advice Monster.” Use them in sequence or selectively based on the conversation.

1. The Kickstart Question

“What’s on your mind?”

When to Use	Why It Works
Opening every conversation	Opens the door without leading. Lets the mentee set the agenda.

Tips:

Stay silent after asking. Let them fill the space.
Don’t suggest topics or prompt with “Is it about X?”

Follow-up if they’re vague: “What’s the most important thing we should talk about today?”

2. The AWE Question

“And what else?”

When to Use	Why It Works
After any answer to go deeper	The first answer is rarely the only answer or the best answer. Creates space for more.

Tips:

Ask it at least three times per topic
Tone matters: curious, not interrogating
Often the real issue emerges on the third “And what else?”

When they say “Nothing else”: Move to the next question. Don’t force it.

3. The Focus Question

“What is the real challenge here for you?”