The open question ratio measures the proportion of questions you ask that are open-ended. Open-ended questions are those that cannot be answered with a simple "yes" or "no." They invite elaboration and deeper thinking, often starting with words like "how," "what," "why," or "can you describe."

This is another metric that changes significantly across a coaching or leadership journey. Experienced coaches will typically ask on average between 70%-85% of open questions.

Don't miss the insightful article on our Science page by Dr. Nicky Terblanche - a renowned academic, researcher, leadership coach, and entrepreneur. Dive into The power of open-ended questions for a compelling read!

Open questions facilitate richer, more informative discussions. They encourage clients or colleagues to share more insights, feelings, and perspectives, leading to a more nuanced understanding of their needs and concerns.

Review your recent meetings with an eye on the types of questions you asked. Were they mostly closed or open-ended? Reflect on the impact this had on the conversation. Practice framing your inquiries in a way that encourages expansive answers.

In coaching, the true value lies in resisting the urge to immediately find a solution. Instead, it's about helping the client gain new insights and perspectives on their situation. By focusing on this reflective, insight-generating phase, you create the space for clients to see their challenges in a new light, which is crucial before moving on to actionable solutions.

Open-ended questions are your secret weapon here.

As you work to improve, track your progress on Ovida. Collaborating with a communication coach or a trusted peer for feedback can also provide valuable insights into how to diversify your questioning style.