The Advice Trap Review

The Advice Trap: Be Humble, Stay Curious & Change the Way You Lead Forever by Michael Bungay Stanier

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


In my capacity as a Fellow Coach with BetterUp Coaching, I often encounter leaders searching for transformative ways to guide their teams. "The Advice Trap" has consistently been among my top recommendations. Its central premise – the value of asking questions over doling out advice – resonates deeply with both my philosophy as a coach and with the leaders I work with.

The book seamlessly conveys the importance of humility and curiosity in leadership, two traits that are undeniably crucial in today's complex organizational landscapes. The author makes a compelling argument, supported by robust research and engaging anecdotes, about how these qualities can redefine leadership for the better.

In addition, as an instructor of aspiring coaches at a local community college, I've often advocated for "The Advice Trap" as a staple in coaching literature. It's more than just a guide; it’s a call to action, urging readers to take a step back, reflect, and truly consider the impact of asking vs telling.

For anyone looking to change not just how they coach or lead, this book is an invaluable resource. It serves as a pertinent reminder that sometimes, the best way to lead is not to provide all the answers, but to ask the right questions.

Chuck Gohn- Author, Fellow Coach at BetterUp & Coaching Instructor.



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