Amazon CEO emphasizes the power of asking 'Why?' in the workplace

In his recent annual letter to shareholders, published on April 10, 2025, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy reflected on the importance of asking questions in the business environment. He noted that throughout his nearly 28 years at Amazon, he has observed that strong curiosity and the habit of asking 'Why?' significantly contribute to both individual and organizational growth. Jassy shared how his own childhood curiosity, marked by relentless questioning, shaped his understanding of the world and helped him navigate complex challenges within the company. This ongoing inquisitiveness is not just a personal trait but is encouraged at Amazon, where it has proven to foster innovation. During his tenure, Jassy pinpointed that the teams and employees who frequently ask questions are the ones that excel at problem-solving and product development. By delving deeper into issues and not accepting things at face value, Amazon employees have produced groundbreaking products like Amazon Prime and AWS. The process of questioning often leads to constructive debates, which are essential for driving innovation and preventing mistakes within the organization. Jassy emphasized that significant inventions often arise from a culture that nurtures inquisitiveness rather than rigid planning. In addition to Jassy's insights, communication experts reinforce the value of asking questions in the workplace. Stanford lecturer Matt Abrahams highlighted that such interactions demonstrate care, empathy, and a willingness to learn. This approach not only establishes a collaborative environment but also fosters relationships among colleagues. Workers today can benefit from being open to feedback and challenging ideas, which can enhance their influence within their teams. In a landscape increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence, the ability to ask the right questions will become more valuable than just having the answers. The importance of curiosity, prompted by the habit of asking 'Why?', suggests a shift in workplace dynamics. Companies like Amazon thrive when their employees are encouraged to explore new ideas and perspectives. By adopting this mindset, organizations can inspire their workforce to innovate and adapt to changing circumstances, ultimately delivering better customer experiences. The emphasis on inquiry underlines a fundamental principle of success: those who actively seek to learn and grow will forge ahead in their careers, setting themselves apart in an increasingly competitive global market.