What is the best way to obtain information from the senior staff who is reluctant to provide it?

Shadowing, observing, asking questions

Keep on asking them questions, make them realize their importance in the company and how valuable their answers are to us.

We can also observe them and take them into confidence.

follow up on regular basis and give deadlines in completing their responsibilities. If the above approaches do not work go for observation or mystery customer option to rule out their opinions at the end conduct a root cause analysis based on opinions obtained from  peer review

Show them the end result!

Show them how this information will help in achieving the desired result.

Ask them for their advise on the matter - and they will start providing information through their advise and that is what we desire right - Information! :)

As we are talking of a senior employee, so we better show them how important an asset they are to the organisation and try to build a repo with the person in order to make sure that he/she trusts you enough to provide you with the information you desire !

Senior managers and business leaders should be involved in every HR matter, So that it is easier to take their advise or valuable input when its needed. Working as HR Business partner rather than just HR employees will help in exchanging important information in a two way flow. To get support in a particular issue, a detailed business case which highlights the business benefits in short and long term would be helpful.

Leaders need to let go and guide their employees to mature within new and expansive roles and responsibilities. Employees want to feel valued and challenged; they want to be trusted and given the freedom to explore and learn within the job.

Instead of writing email, it is better to visit them and ask personally and request them if they can send by mail

 

 

Address why s/he is reluctant then clearly explain the need for such information. This would help you get the information from him/her and at the same time you will be able to establish a connection with him/her.