To Get Better Answers Ask Better Questions
Too often, conversations with firefighters end with surface-level answers like “fine” or “good.” But what if those words are masking frustration, disengagement, or missed opportunities for growth? In Beyond “Fine”: Getting Real Feedback from Firefighters (Firefighter Nation, September 2025), Alex Zielinski challenges leaders to move beyond small talk and superficial engagement by asking better questions.
The article explores why firefighters hesitate to share honest feedback—from fear of retaliation to a lack of trust—and shows how leaders can replace micromanagement with coaching that fosters collaboration and growth.
Alex introduces 12 practical, open-ended questions designed to spark meaningful dialogue. Each question is paired with context on how it reveals hidden challenges, builds trust, and encourages professional development.
Listening is only the first step. Real leadership means acting on the feedback you receive. By following through, leaders transform feedback into action and relationships into partnerships.
👉 Read the full article on Firefighter Nation to discover how better questions can unlock authentic conversations and build stronger fire service teams.