“Wisdom begins with being curious.” —Margi Bush.
As you learned on Day One: Assumptions create obstacles blocking our ability to learn, understand to gain clarity, and become open to other’s perspectives. Today, we want to introduce you to the Spirit of Curiosity.
Great relationships are very important and one valuable tool that helps you on the Road to Rapportis the Spirit of Curiosity.
Many disagreements at work come from simple misunderstandings based on different communications styles and our ability to pause and reflect on situations. As the Boss, it’s important to demonstrate the spirit of curiosity, be fully present in conversations, ask open questions and reflectively listen to others. These extra steps provide space for an exploration of options that may lead to better insight about other’s perspectives.
As the Boss you can go F.A.R. on the Road to Rapport by asking yourself these questions:
Fully Present:
- How am I limiting distractions?
- What can I do to have a better outcome?
- What do I want for the other person, the relationship, and myself?
- How am I seeking to create common ground?
Ask Open Questions:
- How am I going to listen to the other person? Sitting in curiosity?
- How am I aligned with my values?
- How can I listen to learn?
- How can listen so the other person talks?
Reflective Listening:
- How can restate what I have heard to ensure understanding?
- How am I communicating that I honor and appreciate their perspectives?
- How can I better understand what is behind their perspectives?
As Boss Builders and Wisdom Tree Coaching we use these metaphors to illustrate two paths in interactions with others: Assumption (Highway to Hell) and Curiosity (Stairway to Heaven). Which path will you choose?
What possibilities might be in your future as the Boss when you demonstrate the Spirit of Curiosity?
We wish you a week of Being a Great Boss.