“Vulnerability is the best measure of courage” ~ Brené Brown

I was recently working with a HR Manager who wanted to improve her work-life balance by spending less time procrastinating about tasks that she had to do, working more effectively, except everything does not need to be perfect and therefore reducing the need to work evenings and weekends.

Through coaching we established a number of different options that could support her behavioral change, one was to ask a team member to become an accountability partner.

Initially, this was met with resistance as she did not want to ‘show’ her weakness to another team member and the word ‘scary’ was used to describe how she felt about it.

There is much research that proves vulnerability is a key leadership strength. Brené Brown 2010 TEDx , The Power of Vulnerability https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iCvmsMzlF7o is one of the top ten most viewed TED talks in the world.

After the sudden death of her husband, Sheryl Sandberg said by being vulnerable she created a space for conversations to be had, where employees can receive help in recovering from a loss or crisis, which helped workplaces become more prepared in dealing with failure.

Here are 3 reasons why showing your vulnerability can develop your leadership signature:

» Increases the flow of Ideas, Creativity, and Innovation from your team. By acknowledging that you don’t have all the answers you give permission and freedom for all ideas and feedback to be voiced.

» Research proves that when a leader is open, honest and authentic, employees have a connection with the organisation, meaning that they are less likely to leave.

» By removing your armor and leaving your ego outside the room you become comfortable in not having all the answers. By engaging with the perspectives and thoughts of your team you create a culture of diversity of thought.

How do you feel about showing your vulnerability in leading your team? Please contact me if you would like to develop your leadership signature.