SMP Leading in Transformation

#7 | Questions as answers: How to ask the RIGHT questions in transformation projects

SMP Leading in Transformation

9. February 2026

With Dr. Hans-Joachim Grabow, Janis Steinfort and Michael Hedtstück

0 h 43 Min

"That's a good question!"

We are all familiar with this reaction from our everyday lives. But we also know this one: “What a stupid question!” So there is a lot of chance involved when it comes to using a question to spark a good discussion. In groundbreaking restructuring and transformation projects, however, this is essential in order to quickly get to the heart of the challenge together and then drive the change project forward from there. 

Dr. Hans-Joachim Grabow, who has been systematically working with the “tool” of the right questions as a transformation manager for more than 30 years, explains what the “right” questions look like in this context, how to learn to ask them precisely and in a way that encourages further discussion, and why this provides valuable impetus not only strategically but also operationally. Together with Janis Steinfort, he gives concrete examples of which questions spark interest and how to ask them in a way that creates a positive, appreciative atmosphere. 

*Video only in German

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our classic podcast: SMP LeaderTalks.

18. March 2026

SMP LeaderTalks

#137 | The Truth About Lies - Georgiy Michailov meets Prof. Dr. Michael Saller

"There is no single body language cue that can expose a lie."

To the full episode To all SMP LeaderTalks