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The key is understanding and harnessing the benefits of vulnerability in leadership!  

What it is and Why it matters! 

If you were asked to describe a successful Business leader you might respond, 

‘strong, never showing emotion or vulnerability, unfeeling, never wrong and if they were they would never admit to it’.  

Well said! That’s it in a nutshell. Historically ‘vulnerability’ in the context of Business work life had a bad reputation. It was described as weakness, bleeding hearts pouring out affection, emotions viewed as inappropriate behaviour.  Leaders were expected to be and were portrayed by stoic images of mid-century ‘breadwinners’, the ideal portrait of masculinity, power and professionalism. 

The Good news, this view and mindset have changed in recent years, influenced particularly by millennials. They accept and welcome vulnerability in Leaders of all genders. They are authentic, willing to share the challenges of work life balance, caregiving, and acknowledge mental health struggles. They practice and demonstrate humility.  

Great news! Today, 'smart' Leaders aren't afraid to be vulnerable. They embrace the power and strength of vulnerability to build meaningful connections, engaging relationships and improved team dynamics. They have and show a human side! 

Who doesn’t want that! 

READ ON! 

7 Ways to be a more vulnerable Leader  

1. Share your story – it's ok to speak about your own experiences, successes, and failures. Importantly, sharing what you learned, including from mistakes. The message, mistakes are okay it's about learning from them. Choose what you share, what you are comfortable with and what is appropriate to the situation. 

2. Admit if you don't have all the answers – it's alright to say you don't know but are prepared to find out and seek advice from others. Importantly always follow up. 

3. Ask for feedback - encourage Team members to give their feedback. Actively listen, and genuinely value their input and opinions. Foster innovation and open communication. Acknowledge ideas that have been acted upon, whether positive or negative.  

4. Don’t be afraid to show your feelings – Leaders are human too, they can be happy, afraid, and excited.  Displaying real feelings will help your Team better understand you and make it more comfortable for them to share. Practice self-awareness and empathy to enhance your emotional intelligence.  

5. Be prepared to have help – Let others help if needed. Accepting assistance recognises the contribution others can make and the important part they can play in getting the job done. Everyone benefits. Builds Team and employee engagement. 

6. Create a supportive culture where your team feels empowered to share without fear of retribution, to be open and honest, to ask for help or what they need. Provide safe spaces and offer an open door to chat privately. 

7. Lead by example with transparency, and authentic modelling.   It’s about words and actions, standing by your values and beliefs, both privately and publicly. This encourages those with less formal power to confidently mirror your behaviour. 

Takeaway: The key is understanding and harnessing the benefits of vulnerability in leadership! 

Being a great Leader goes beyond giving orders and organizing, it’s about showing a human side, being open and honest, having a vulnerability even when the going gets tough!