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Purpose This paper examines the role of curiosity in volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA) work contexts. Design/methodology/approach This conceptual article relied upon an examination of literature about curiosity, VUCA and soft skills. Findings Curiosity, when encouraged and supported within the workforce, may aid organizations in closing soft skill gaps and better navigating ambiguity, perpetually changing business landscapes, and rapidly advancing technology. Research limitations/implications Empirical research is needed to validate, confirm and further explicate the specific mechanisms and value of curiosity within VUCA environments. Practical implications Organizations need to move beyond espousing a value of curiosity to deliberately and effectively cultivating and supporting it within their employees. Originality/value Although ample research and literature has examined curiosity, soft skills and VUCA environments independently, the body of literature on the specific role of curiosity in such environments is limited.
Alison Horstmeyer (Tue,) studied this question.