Diving deeper into conversations brings its own rewards

Are you someone who is interested in other people, products and plans? How far does that curiosity go? When it comes to people, some are stellar at connecting with others through basic questions such as name, work and home. When that conversation naturally winds itself up, are you interested in going beyond the surface level? If you are, do you know how?

Some research points to many benefits of investigating the world at a deeper level. Some of the results reported include reduced anxiety and depression symptoms, longevity and stronger relationships. Research also suggests that leaders, teams and businesses incorporating more meaningful curiosity in the workplace are far more successful. This trait drives innovation, productivity and collaboration. It gives people and workplaces a competitive advantage.

So how can you begin a journey of going deeper with the world around you? First, don’t be so quick to stop asking questions or pondering a situation with the first answer. This doesn’t mean peppering people with questions in an invasive way. It does mean being authentic in your invitation to go a bit deeper in your conversation.

Some people struggle with getting started on this journey. They don’t know how or where to begin. Below are a few questions that may help. We also encourage you to come up with some of your own for your personal encounters.

■ What drives you?

■ What have other people done in these situations? Who has inspired you the most, and why? What made you choose this path?

■ What is energizing and motivating you these days? What informs you around decision-making?

■ What makes you tick? How are your core values a part of the process?

■ What’s next? Who does it involve? Where might you need support, and where can you provide help?