Open-minded people are those who are reliable as they tend to consider different perspectives before reaching a decision or conclusion.

Open-mindedness is the ability to be less negative and more curious, contemplative and attentive. They are willing to look for and think about other perspectives.

The term ‘open-minded’ is usually used as a synonym for being non-prejudiced or tolerant. The term is used to describe how willing people are to consider other perspectives or to try out new experiences.

Open-minded people are willing to have their ideas challenged, stay calm when they are wrong, feel empathy for other people, think about what others are thinking, are humble about their knowledge and expertise, want to hear what other people have to say and believe everyone has a right to share their beliefs and thoughts, according to Indeed Career Guide, a career advise platform.

Tips to be open-minded

"Not every conversation or discussion requires argument for one to seem a winner, open minded people ought to listen and ask questions where need be especially when they need details, as that’s the basis of knowing. People who don’t know usually want to prove a point to win arguments or even to be perceived as wise, a thing that hinders them from listening to how rich other people’s opinions may be,” says Vennah Uwera, a business executive.

She suggests allowing yourself to expand your knowledge by spending time with different co-workers, as that way, you will learn their viewpoints about different topics.

Uwera adds that one can widen their scope of knowledge if they expose themselves to read books, watch movies, listen to podcasts and other learning or discovery materials.

She also stresses that you can’t claim that you’re open-minded if you don’t acknowledge your mistakes. For example, at times others show us our mistakes, but maturity is when we accept our mistake and appreciate someone for correcting us and if possible inquire how things should have been done.

"Open-minded people boost teamwork and produce better results. Unlike teams that are uncooperative, employees who are open-minded listen to each other’s ideas, learn and grow together. Better results are expected thus adding value to the company,” she says.

She adds that open-minded people are unique as they can cope with all kinds of co-workers and jobs regardless of how complicated they’re.

For her, when people feel that they’re more knowledgeable or skilled in an area than other people, they are less likely to be open-minded.

Uwera states that open-mindedness requires one to be vulnerable, as that way, you won’t struggle to be correct all the time.

According to Forbes, open-mindedness is equated with positivity and growth. It helps us to take risks, find opportunities, understand others, and manage uncertainty. We also see open-minded people as more generous and kind. Further, the more success that we have, the harder it is to be open to new ideas. Research from Loyola University of Chicago has found that those who consider themselves to be experts in their fields are often more closed-minded to alternative viewpoints.

"A major component to open-mindedness is being an active, engaged listener. Successful listening starts with sincere curiosity about another person or situation. Good listeners make the engagement about the other person, not themselves.”