Curiosity, Continuous Learning: Key Traits for Success

Continuous learning, adaptability, and curiosity are key traits to thrive in the modern workplace, says Julie Sweet, CEO, Accenture. In rapidly changing industries, fostering a learning culture drives innovation and ensures competitiveness.

Sweet urges employers to ask candidates: “What have you learned in the last six months?” This question, she says, gauges whether a candidate demonstrates curiosity and a willingness to acquire new skills. “If someone cannot answer that question, and by the way, we do not care if it is  ‘I learned to bake a cake,’ if they cannot answer that question, then we know that they are  not a learner,” Sweet said in the "In Good Company" podcast hosted by Norges Bank Investment Management. 

Sweet had previously highlighted curiosity and leadership as two key traits she looks for in candidates.

Curiosity has been deemed essential in the workplace because it drives continuous learning and adaptability, crucial for staying ahead in a rapidly changing environment, explains LinkedIn. As reported by MBN, businesses are navigating four megatrends — climate change, technological disruption, geopolitical instability, and demographic shifts — that require employees to remain agile. In this context, curiosity becomes a powerful tool, enabling individuals to anticipate challenges and innovate. Curious employees seek solutions, question how to enhance products and programs, and demonstrate a drive to lead and innovate, making it a vital trait for success.

“The new normal is continuous learning, and we look for people who demonstrate lots of different interests and really demonstrate curiosity,” Sweet tells The Times. 

An emphasis on learning is becoming widespread in the workplace, says Business Insider. Speaking at Georgetown University’s annual Financial Markets Quality Conference, Jamie Dimon, CEO, JPMorgan, advised students to focus on reading and exploring diverse viewpoints. “Learn, learn, learn,” says Dimon. “You only learn by reading and talking to other people. There is no other way.”