How to unleash the career superpower of curiosity
A junior analyst notices that a recurring report includes several metrics that no longer align with the team's current objectives. Instead of merely updating the report as instructed, he asks, 'Why are we still tracking these specific metrics?' This question prompts a discussion that leads to a more relevant and streamlined reporting process.
A mid-level project manager is assigned to lead a project involving a department they're unfamiliar with. Rather than solely focusing on their project plan, she takes the initiative to learn about the department's workflows and challenges by asking, 'Can you walk me through your typical process?' This curiosity fosters better collaboration and uncovers opportunities for process improvements that benefit the entire organization.
These are just two situations that occur in workplaces across the country every week, sometimes every day. In today's dynamic workplace, curiosity isn't just a trait – it is a strategic tool for career advancement. By actively cultivating curiosity, you can unlock new opportunities, drive innovation and position yourself for growth. Here are five practical strategies to harness curiosity effectively:
Ask open-ended questions
Curiosity starts with the right questions. Instead of yes/no prompts such as 'Is this working?', try asking, 'What's going well, and what's getting in the way?' or 'What haven't we considered yet?'
These kinds of questions invite deeper insight and spark more meaningful conversation. Before your next meeting, prepare two open-ended questions to raise such as, 'What would success look like here?' or 'What led you to that approach?'
In one-on-one conversations, try asking, 'What's been your biggest challenge this week?' or 'What's one thing you need from me?'
A helpful habit is to pause before offering your own opinion and ask a clarifying question first. By consistently using open-ended questions, you show engagement, foster learning and open the door to innovation and problem-solving.
Seek diverse perspectives
One of the best ways to fuel curiosity is by actively seeking out viewpoints beyond your usual circle. Make a point of asking colleagues in different roles or departments for their insights, especially when you're tackling a problem or making a decision.
You might ask, 'How does this affect your team?' or 'What's one thing you'd want us to know from your side?'
Even an informal chat over coffee can reveal perspectives you hadn't considered. When working on a project, invite someone from another function to weigh in early. It could surface issues or opportunities you'd otherwise miss.
By regularly tapping into diverse perspectives, you'll broaden your understanding, challenge your assumptions and build stronger, more collaborative relationships across your organization.
Embrace lifelong learning
Curiosity thrives when you make learning part of your routine, not just something you do when required. Look for small, practical ways to expand your knowledge, whether it's reading an article about industry trends, watching a short tutorial or asking a colleague to explain a tool you're unfamiliar with.
You might say, 'I'd love to understand how you approach that, could you walk me through it?' or 'What resource would you recommend if I want to learn more about this?'
Even 15 minutes a week set aside for learning can pay off. By showing a proactive approach to growth, you demonstrate adaptability and initiative – qualities that your leaders will notice and value when thinking about future opportunities.
Reflect and adapt
Curiosity isn't just about asking questions of others, it is also about examining your own work. After finishing a project or task, pause to reflect: What went well? What was challenging? What should I adjust next time?
You can also ask others, 'What's one thing we could improve next time?' or 'Was anything unexpected for you in this process?' This habit of reflection and adaptation helps you avoid repeating mistakes and spot opportunities to improve. Over time, it sharpens your judgment, strengthens resilience and signals to others that you're proactive and committed to continuous growth – all qualities that can accelerate your career.
Create a safe space for inquiry
Curiosity flourishes in environments where questions are welcomed, not shut down. Whether you're leading a team or working alongside others, you can help create that space by modeling openness yourself. Try saying, 'That's a great question, let's look at it together,' or 'I hadn't thought of it that way; tell me more.'
When someone raises an idea or concern, resist the urge to dismiss or rush past it. Instead, ask 'What makes you see it that way?' or 'How do you think we could explore this further?'
Over time, encouraging this kind of dialogue builds trust, improves problem-solving and fosters a culture where innovation can take root. It makes you not just curious, but also a catalyst for growth.
Curiosity is more than a nice-to-have – it's a professional superpower. It helps you navigate uncertainty, uncover fresh insights and adapt to change with confidence. By bringing curiosity to your daily work, you not only elevate your own growth but also inspire those around you to think bigger and bolder.
Merge Gupta-Sunderji is a speaker, author, mentor to senior leaders and the chief executive officer of the leadership development consultancy Turning Managers Into Leaders.
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