You are constantly striving to keep projects on track and meet your goals. In the midst of your busy schedule, one of your team members presents an idea that, at first glance, may not seem immediately relevant.
Sounds familiar?
It can be easy to respond with dismissal or brush it off without fully exploring its potential consequences. By doing so, you risk missing out on valuable opportunities for innovation, stifling the creative potential within your team, and potentially creating a sense of dissatisfaction or demotivation among your team members who may feel unheard or undervalued.
Curiosity may have killed the cat, but it is an effective way to build relationships and approach the world with an open mind. It can be your leadership’s secret sauce. In a fast-paced and ever-changing environment, cultivating curiosity can unlock a world of possibilities and foster stronger relationships within your teams.
Here are 3 actions you can take to become a more curious leader:
1. Ask Thought-Provoking Questions: Instead of assuming you know the answers or making quick judgments, take the time to inquire about your team’s perspectives, challenges, and ideas. By asking open-ended questions that encourage deeper reflection and discussion, you demonstrate a genuine interest in understanding your team members’ experiences and foster an environment of curiosity. Consider asking questions such as:
“How might this decision/idea impact our customers/clients/stakeholders?”
“What would success look like if we pursued this path?”
2. Practice Active Listening by giving your full attention to the person speaking, maintaining eye contact, and avoiding interruptions. You can also practice reflective listening by paraphrasing and summarizing what the speaker has said to ensure mutual understanding. By genuinely listening and seeking to comprehend different viewpoints without rushing to judgment, you demonstrate curiosity and create a safe space for open dialogue.
3. Seek Diverse Perspectives within your team and beyond. Actively encourage team members from different backgrounds, roles, and levels of experience to contribute their insights and ideas. Seek external perspectives by engaging with mentors, industry experts, or participating in networking events to expand your knowledge and understanding.
The next time you find yourself about to dismiss an idea, pause, remove judgement and add curiosity.
How has curiosity impacted your leadership?