The Power of Curiosity: How to Create a Safe Space for Ideas and Innovation
“When was the last time you or your team were firing on all cylinders, sharing ideas freely and collaborating effortlessly? Those ‘good vibes’ didn’t happen by chance.”
Think back to a time when you or your team was at its most productive. Whether you’re leading a team or preparing for your future leadership role, chances are, there were plenty of “good vibes”—that unspoken feeling that things were just clicking. It might seem like these moments happen organically, but as leaders (or leaders in the making), we create environments where these vibes grow and flourish.
Over the last two posts, we’ve explored how psychological safety forms the foundation of a healthy culture and how meaningful feedback fosters deeper dialogue. But what about those informal, day-to-day conversations? The ones around the office, in meetings, or even with colleagues, where brainstorming happens? How can we, as leaders (or aspiring leaders), encourage an atmosphere where people feel safe to speak up, share, and collaborate?
It starts with curiosity.
Curiosity is more than just asking questions—it’s about showing genuine interest in someone’s ideas or perspective, without judgment or the need for immediate critique. When leaders approach conversations with curiosity, they create a space where team members feel valued and safe to share their thoughts. It signals that their contributions matter, which boosts confidence and engagement. Curiosity shifts the dynamic from a potentially defensive exchange to one that’s collaborative and open, allowing for more innovative thinking and deeper problem-solving.
So instead of immediately jumping to critique or questioning logistics, try shifting the tone of your questions to show curiosity and openness. For example:
• “I haven’t heard of that kind of approach before—can you tell me more?”
• “That’s interesting! What made you think of that?”
• “I’m not sure I understood all of what you said. Could you explain it differently for me?”
By using questions that express curiosity, you signal to others—whether your team or colleagues—that you’re truly interested in their contributions. More importantly, it shows that their ideas are welcome and that this is a safe space for sharing. While critical, probing questions have their place, in those early stages of brainstorming or casual conversations, fostering curiosity can spark more ideas and lead to better solutions.
What conversations or moments could you approach with more curiosity this week?
Till next week. And keep SHiNEing.
THANK YOU
To my content collaborator on this week’s Saturday Leadership Moment!
This week’s article comes to you on behalf of Shana M. Shana and I had the pleasure to work with one another, and I always admired her leadership on ensuring we practiced psychological safety in the workplace. It’s an honor to have you as a co-collaborator on this week’s topic.
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