How often do you ask “what if” or “why not” at work? Curiosity can be a powerful thing. It can lead you to seek new knowledge, expand your skill set and keep up with what’s happening in the promo world.

Staying curious can also lead you to consider new perspectives, engage in more open conversations and share information more freely. This can create a culture of collaboration where everyone feels encouraged to ask questions, try new things and embrace new approaches.

Writer Christina LeClaire contributed a post to the Bold Orange blog that explains some of the benefits of curiosity at work and how to foster a culture of curiosity. We highlight her ideas in this issue of PromoPro Daily.

The Benefits of Curiosity

  • Better quality work and job satisfaction. According to LeClaire, curiosity can help you stay engaged and motivated. When you’re genuinely curious about what you’re working on, you’re more likely to be engaged and excited to do your best work.

  • Innovation. When you’re curious about something, you naturally want to learn more about it. This, in turn, can help you stay current on trends and new developments.

  • Authentic human connection. Curiosity can also help you build genuine connections with others, LeClaire says. When your curiosity is piqued, you’re more likely to ask a co-worker for advice or share your ideas. Being curiosity-minded can also help you get to know your co-workers as people outside of work.

How to Cultivate More Curiosity

  • Promote learning and growth. This could mean providing staff members with access to courses, books and webinars. LeClaire says it could also involve offering mentorship opportunities or encouraging employes to attend workshops or conferences like the PPAI Women’s Leadership Conference.

  • Foster collaboration. Be the first to speak up and show your co-workers it’s OK to share their ideas. Try planning more group brainstorming sessions and opportunities for people to get to know each other outside of work, too.

  • Experiment. Take a fresh approach and try out new ideas. LeClaire says that when you encourage others to take risks and think outside the box, you contribute to a culture of innovation and creativity.

Curiosity is an important skill that can transform the way you think and the way you work. You can cultivate a more curious mind by asking more questions, taking more risks and stepping outside your comfort zone. When you expand your curiosity, your co-workers might feel inspired to do the same.

Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: Christina LeClaire is a content creator and designer who has contributed to the Bold Orange blog.