Pure Inquiry

Pure inquiry implies that the client controls both the process and content of the conversation. The role of the consultant is to remain silent and listen carefully and neutrally. If silence does not elicit the story, the consultant can choose any of the following prompts as may seem appropriate (Schein, 1999, pp. 44–45):

• What is the situation?
• Can you tell me what is going on?
• What is happening?
• Describe the situation.
• Tell me more.
• Go on.
• Tell me what is going on.
• How can I help?
• So (accompanied by an expectant look).
• What brings you here?
• Can you give me some examples of that?
• Can you give me some of the details of what went on?
• When did this last happen?
• When did you last experience “this problem”?
• What was going on?
• Can you give some additional examples of when you experienced the problem?

It is important not to impose questions that presuppose a problem. The focus is on what is going on, and not on why it is going on. Furthermore, the goal is full disclosure. The consultant needs to enhance their understanding.

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References

Schein, E. (1999). Process consultation revisited: Building the helping relationship. Addison-Wesley.