Are you walking into critical conversations armed with arguments or curiosity?

In "The Right Way to Prepare for a High-Stakes Conversation", HBR author Jeff Wetzler highlights a new approach. Most leaders default to rehearsed dialogues, which can block breakthrough insights and strain relationships. Instead, Wetzler introduces the Curiosity Check, a pre-conversation mindset shift that replaces defensiveness with openness.  

Why is this important? Research shows this mental check primes leaders to listen, learn, and lead more effectively. Curiosity and empathy drive real impact in today's tech-powered workplaces. This mindset is essential for the inclusive leadership our industry needs.

Below are 4 ways to prepare like a pro

• Shift your mindset from certainty to curiosity. Are you open to new perspectives, or just gearing up for a debate?

• Perform the Curiosity Check. Take five minutes before the conversation to check your openness, presence, and readiness to listen.

• Ask questions, not statements. Start by inviting input from the person you are in conversation with. This creates space for learning, not just persuading.

• Be prepared to be surprised. Authentic curiosity strengthens insight while building trust and collaboration.

Curiosity is your conversation superpower. Click the link below to read the full article.