The Power of Asking Questions
More than 85 years ago, Dale Carnegie highlighted the power of questions in How to Win Friends and Influence People. He encouraged leaders to "ask questions that others will enjoy answering," emphasizing how thoughtful inquiry strengthens relationships and influence.
In policing, asking the right questions is a tool for better decision-making, problem-solving, and leadership. It takes courage to question assumptions, explore different perspectives, and address difficult topics. A department that values curiosity fosters stronger teams, clearer communication, and continuous learning.
At times, asking tough questions can feel like a risk. Officers and staff may hesitate, fearing they will appear uninformed, disrupt the chain of command, or face pushback. But when curiosity is encouraged, questioning becomes a sign of strength. A department that values inquiry drives innovation, challenges outdated thinking, and identifies potential risks before they escalate.
Beyond problem-solving, open-ended questions build trust, improve communication, and create an inclusive environment. When officers and staff feel heard, conversations shift from routine exchanges to meaningful dialogue that strengthens teamwork and decision-making. By embracing the courage to ask, we do more than seek answers; we create opportunities for real connection and lasting change.
Self-Assessment:
The Power of Asking Questions
Please take a few moments to contemplate the following self-reflection questions. Where can you identify opportunities for personal growth in your leadership approach?
How often do I intentionally ask questions to understand perspectives that differ from my own?
When I ask questions, do I consider how cultural, social, or personal backgrounds might influence the responses?
Am I mindful of how my questions might privilege certain voices over others?
Do I use questions to recognize and address challenges that may be affecting my team or department?
Do my questions help build trust and deeper connections with those around me?
How do I ensure that my questions encourage collaboration rather than division?
Do I regularly reflect on whether my questions are free from bias or assumptions?
Do I seek feedback on how my questions are perceived by others, especially those from different backgrounds or experiences?
Use this self-assessment to evaluate how effectively you use questions in your role. Reflect on your responses, identify areas for growth, and seek feedback from a trusted mentor or colleague to strengthen your leadership and communication.
In Good Leaders Ask Great Questions, John Maxwell explains that strong leaders use questioning to connect with others, challenge assumptions, and gain new insights. Asking the right questions is a powerful tool for building trust, improving decision-making, and strengthening leadership at all levels.
For law enforcement professionals, the ability to ask the right questions can make a significant difference in communication, problem-solving, and department culture. Thoughtful questioning:
Enhances Trust and Communication
Encourages open conversations that strengthen relationships between officers, leadership, and civilian employees.
Reduces misunderstandings and misinterpretations by clarifying diverse perspectives.
Fosters an Inclusive Work Environment
Demonstrates that all employees—regardless of background, rank, or role—are heard and valued.
Helps identify barriers to inclusion and create actionable solutions.
Improves Team Collaboration
Creates a culture of respect and mutual understanding, leading to better teamwork.
Encourages cross-functional problem-solving between officers and civilian staff.
Strengthens Community Policing Efforts
Encourages officers and civilians to engage with the diverse communities they serve more effectively.
Helps recognize biases and improve interactions with different community groups.
Reduces Workplace Tension and Conflict
Provides a safe space for employees to discuss concerns and resolve issues proactively.
Helps prevent workplace disputes by addressing systemic DEI challenges early.
Encourages Fair and Equitable Practices
Promotes transparency in policies, promotions, and decision-making processes.
Ensures that hiring, training, and leadership development are inclusive.
Supports Mental Health and Well-being
Validates the experiences and challenges faced by employees from diverse backgrounds.
Helps leadership understand the unique stressors of officers and civilian staff, leading to better support systems.
Leads to Better Decision-Making
Encourages diverse viewpoints, which results in more well-rounded policies and strategies.
Reduces the risk of groupthink by challenging assumptions through meaningful dialogue.
Departments that encourage open dialogue create an environment where officers and staff feel heard and valued. Asking thoughtful questions builds stronger teams, improves problem-solving, and ultimately leads to better service to the community.
“The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.”
Taking risks in law enforcement is not always about split-second decisions in the field. Sometimes, the most significant risks come from asking the right questions—challenging assumptions, seeking clarity, and pushing for solutions. A single well-placed question can create meaningful change within a department and the community it serves.
Challenging Assumptions: Many departments operate on long-standing traditions and practices. It takes courage to ask, “Why do we do it this way?” This question can uncover outdated policies, improve operational efficiency, and create opportunities for progress.
Exploring the Unknown: Innovation begins with curiosity. Asking, “What if we tried something different?” encourages creative problem-solving, even when the outcome is uncertain. A culture that values inquiry fosters continuous learning and adaptability.
Speaking Truth to Power: Some of the most critical questions are those that challenge leadership decisions. Asking, “Have we considered the unintended consequences?” promotes thoughtful decision-making. In a department that values open dialogue, officers and staff should feel empowered to raise concerns without fear of retaliation.
“The right question is usually more important than the right answer.”
In policing, the ability to ask the right questions is not just a skill—it’s a necessity. Whether engaging with the community, conducting investigations, or shaping departmental policies, effective questioning leads to better decision-making, stronger relationships, and enhanced public safety.
Uncovering the Truth in Investigations: At the heart of any investigation is the pursuit of truth. Asking precise, unbiased, and open-ended questions allows officers to gather accurate information while avoiding leading or suggestive inquiries that could distort facts. The difference between “Did you see a man in a red hoodie?” and “Can you describe what you saw?” can determine whether a case is built on facts or assumptions.
Building Trust and Strengthening Community Relations: The way officers interact with the public significantly influences police-community relationships. When officers ask questions that show genuine curiosity and respect, rather than interrogation or assumption, they foster trust. Instead of “Why are you out so late?”, an officer might ask, “Are you okay? Do you need any assistance?” A small shift in approach can make a big difference in public perception and cooperation.
Enhancing Crisis Response and De-Escalation: In high-stress situations, the right question can de-escalate tensions and prevent conflict. Officers trained in crisis intervention know that questions focusing on understanding rather than accusation can calm individuals in distress. For example, “What’s going on? How can I help?” is far more effective than “What’s your problem?” in reducing hostility and ensuring a peaceful resolution.
Encouraging Internal Reflection and Departmental Growth: Policing is an evolving profession, and officers must continuously adapt to societal changes. Departments that encourage questions like “How can we improve community engagement?” or “Are our policies truly serving the public fairly?” create a culture of accountability and progress. Internal reflection helps prevent outdated or ineffective practices from persisting.
Ensuring Ethical and Fair Decision-Making: Asking the right questions is essential to upholding justice and fairness. Before taking action, officers should consider:
Is this response proportional to the situation?
Am I making assumptions based on bias or fact?
How would I explain this decision to the community?
In policing, the questions officers ask shape outcomes, perceptions, and relationships. The right questions lead to truth, trust, and progress, while the wrong ones can reinforce division and misunderstanding. A department that values thoughtful questioning creates stronger leadership, better decision-making, and meaningful community engagement. Officers and staff who ask the right questions turn curiosity into progress, conversations into connections, and challenges into opportunities for better policing.
At DPD, every interaction is an opportunity to lead with wisdom and integrity. The next session, Strength in Support, will explore how psychological safety and a strong support system empower officers and staff to take risks, share ideas, and work together to serve the community at the highest level.
Enhance your understanding of The Power of Asking Questions by reviewing the following resources. Take this opportunity to enhance your leadership effectiveness and expand your influence within the department and community.
How to Ask Good Questions - A Guideline to Better Conversations
Dr. Grace Lee (15:12)
Nurturing Risk-Taking Through Psychological Safety
Psychological Safety Means It's Safe to Ask for Help When You're Unsure