A few weeks ago, you had a chance to remember how powerful a tool David Rock gave us in SCARF. As you may remember, the five elements are parts of a tool that can continually guide you in any conversation. Being mindful of words, body language, and gestures, we have an advanced insight into what is needed to have positive interactions and outcomes from our conversations.

So, what are those three questions that everyone needs to know for working with staff for honest and open conversations?

1. What do we need to start doing? …
2. What do we need to stop doing? …
3. What do we need to continue doing?…

Think about the language of the questions and identify the words used and what element of SCARF those words impact. In order to maximize the contributions, what are you going to bring forth to make sure we have success for the long haul?

As you read the questions what do you hear that may signal any of the 5 elements?

Status? Certainty? Autonomy? Relatedness? Fairness?

 “we” – “he/she thinks I know” – “he/she wants to know what I think isn’t working” – “he/she wants to know what I think we should do”

It has been recommended by several leadership speakers and books that end-of-year conversations should be simple and build community. Knowing what to start doing as a leader, what to stop doing as a team, and what to keep doing can help leaders understand their team members better and work to unify team goals with organizational goals. (STATUS, AUTONOMY, CERTAINITY, RELATEDNESS, FAIRNESS)

As a last thought, with the much research on SCARF, while Status heads the list, more and more research is finding that Relatedness is the strongest, as it is how we all interact and connect with each other!!!

Enjoy!

Resources: Results Coaching Global Seminars

David Rock, Using Neuroscience to Work Effectively With Others (2008, 2012, 2020, 2024)

Libby Goldschmid, Leadercast 365 – “Ask These 3 Questions” (2024)