The Critical Difference Between Curious and Interested

Conversations with curious people are different than conversations with interested people.

Curious people are energized by venturing into the unknown. Interested people are energized by connections to what they already know.

Curious people ask follow-up questions to learn about your story. Interested people might ask a question, but they always relate it to their own stories.

Curious people focus on the experiences of others. Interested people focus on their own experiences.

Curious people want to learn. Interested people want to tell you what they know.

Curious people prefer the best idea. Interested people prefer their own idea.

Curious people listen more than they talk. Interested people talk more than they listen. (If you don’t believe this, listen to the recording or read the transcript from a recent meeting you’ve attended.)

Curious people are more likely to show understanding. Interested people are more likely to give advice.

Curious people don’t tell you they are curious; they show you. Interested people use the word “interested” to tell you what they know. They use the word “curious” to preface a question, but aren’t actually curious.

Curiosity captures the spirit of Resourcefulness, one of three Compassion Skills we teach in our Compassionate Accountability framework. Resourcefulness helps reinforce that people are capable.

Most leaders are promoted because of interest, not curiosity. Yet, curiosity is much more important when you are leading other people. Curiosity in leadership is associated with more innovation, resilience in the face of failure, teamwork, trust, and engagement.

Copyright Next Element Consulting, LLC 2025