How do you create meaningful conversations at work? Whether you’re breaking the ice in a meeting, facilitating deeper dialogue, or simply trying to connect with colleagues, the right questions can spark engagement and foster a positive team culture. Below, I’ll share four powerful conversation starters—each under four words—that you can use to ignite meaningful conversations at work.
1. “How Might We?”
This simple yet versatile question shifts focus from problems to possibilities. It’s often called a “designer’s question” because it encourages creativity and solution-oriented thinking. Use it in any work context to explore ideas collaboratively:
- How might we improve team communication?
- How might we simplify this process?
- How might we create a more flexible work schedule?
This question is particularly effective at breaking free from negativity or unproductive complaining. It invites participants to co-create solutions and imagine possibilities, making it a great tool for brainstorming sessions or strategic planning meetings.
2. “What Else?”
When conversations hit a pause, this two-word question can be a game-changer. Popularized by Michael Bungay Stanier in The Coaching Habit, it’s an open-ended invitation for more depth. For example:
- If someone says, “I’m from Massachusetts but moved to Asheville,” follow up with, “What else? Tell me more about Asheville.”
- If a colleague shares an idea, ask, “What else could we explore?”
By letting the silence linger after asking, you encourage deeper reflection and uncover insights that might otherwise go unsaid.
3. “What Brings You Joy?”
This question is a gem for building relationships at work. It’s included in the We! Connect Cards and taps into what lights people up. When you know what brings your teammates joy, you can create a more fulfilling workplace.
For example:
- If multiple team members say they love the ocean, plan your next team retreat near the coast.
- If someone loves solving puzzles, involve them in challenging projects.
Understanding what energizes your team allows you to align work experiences with personal passions, fostering engagement and satisfaction.
4. “What Struck You?”
This question, inspired by Peter Block, invites reflection and highlights impactful moments. After a meeting, ask:
- What struck you about our discussion today?
- What did you notice about the group dynamic during this project?
This question digs beneath the surface, encouraging people to share what resonated with them. Often, the responses go beyond the content of the conversation to highlight the process—how people listened, collaborated, or found common ground.
This depth can reveal shared values, strengthen team culture, and surface underlying dynamics that might otherwise remain invisible.
Bonus: Why These Questions Work
Each of these questions is simple yet powerful, inviting curiosity and fostering connection. They shift conversations away from routine, surface-level exchanges and toward meaningful engagement.
Want even more tools to spark meaningful conversations? Download our free printable resources here for access to practical guides, activity ideas, and conversation starters.