Ever notice how conversations—and connections—feel more alive when you lead with curiosity?
That’s because the best leaders don’t just provide answers—they spark questions!
In today’s fast-changing workplace—where five generations work side-by-side—answers can expire fast. Questions, however, open doors that never close.
The best leaders aren’t the ones with the most polished responses. They’re the ones with the most genuine curiosity. They ask questions that spark conversation, uncover blind spots, and draw out the best in others.
Why Questions Matter Now More Than Ever
Recent research highlights how curiosity and asking the right questions are powerful leadership tools:
A groundbreaking study from early August 2025 found that leaders who ask more questions—even to AI assistants—score higher across social intelligence, decision-making, and team effectiveness. The skill of inquiry predicts leadership impact better than age, rank, or tenure. (Source)
University of California psychologists have shown that curiosity isn’t fixed—it can be cultivated. Leaders can consciously shift toward being more curious through small daily actions. (Source)
And from Working It at the Financial Times: Dwelling on open-ended questions, rather than rushing to answers, helps us better navigate ambiguity and “get unstuck” at work. It reframes challenges as gateways, not obstacles. (Source)
Throw in leadership wisdom from HBR in mid-2024: Jensen Huang (NVIDIA’s CEO) said he now spends days asking questions instead of handing out answers—sparking deeper exploration in his team and fueling innovation. (Source)
What Questions Unlock
Curiosity → Connection: Open-ended inquiries build rapport and trust, showing that you’re learning alongside your team—not above it. Genuine curiosity that shows genuine interest makes people feel valued.
Insight → Innovation: Great questions reveal hidden perspectives and propel creative thinking.
Trust → Empowerment: Asking demonstrates humility and invites engagement. It’s an invitation, not a command. People feel seen, heard, and valued.
Your Action For This Week: Ask 5 Powerful Questions
This week, try weaving in these questions to cultivate connection and insight:
- “What’s something you’ve learned recently that surprised you?” > Opens the floor for personal growth and curiosity.
- “If we could change one thing about how we operate, what would it be—and why?” > Invites bold thinking and fresh perspectives.
- “Where do you feel stuck right now—and how can I help?” > Builds psychological safety and shows you’re in their corner.
- “What assumption are we making that might be worth questioning?” > Encourages critical thinking and the mindset of a learner, not a know-it-all.
- “How might someone from a different generation or background see this challenge differently?” > Bridges generational perspectives and sparks inclusive innovation.
Leadership Takeaway
Stay curious, stay connected! Questions often hold more power than answers—and they’re what fuel shared growth and collective trust. Here’s to leading with curiosity, inquiry, empathy and humility!
🔗 Related article: Tailoring Leadership Behaviors to Develop People (Leading Others, series 5)
