The Power of “I Don’t Know”
David Grossman
CEO @ The Grossman Group | Internal and leadership communications | Emerging leader advocate
For many of us, the words “I don’t know” are like kryptonite: a sign of weakness.
In reality, the ability to say “I don’t know” can be a hidden strength. Particularly during times of change, we need to be honest, straightforward and timely in sharing what we know – even when there are open issues and/or there’s much that’s still hasn’t been decided.
The Best Thing to Do When You Don't Have the Answer
At the same time, employees see right through attempts to deflect or dance around an issue. So, what do you do when you don’t yet have the answer? Acknowledge it. Say, “I don’t know…but I will work to find out and let you know as soon as I have an answer.”
This approach says two things to your team:
- You’re confident enough in your leadership to admit when you don’t have all the answers
- You’re trustworthy and committed to your word to get back to them with an answer
The next time you’re stumped, take a deep breath. It’s ok not to know – as long as you come back later with an answer. In fact, your team will trust you more for your honesty.
What’s getting in your way from saying, “I don’t know?”
—David Grossman
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This article originally appeared on the leadercommunicator blog.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: David Grossman helps leaders drive productivity and get the results they want through authentic and courageous leadership communication. He’s a sought-after speaker and advisor to Fortune 500 leaders. A three-time author, David is CEO of The Grossman Group, an award-winning Chicago-based strategic leadership development and internal communication consultancy; clients include: Abbott Laboratories, Amazon, Amsted Industries, Hillrom, Johnson & Johnson, Lockheed Martin, McDonald’s, Microsoft, and Sage Therapeutics, among others.
Among recent communication and leadership accolades, his leadercommunicator blog was named the #1 Blog on Communication by Feedspot four years in a row.
Click these links to follow him on Twitter @ThoughtPartner and Facebook and to connect on LinkedIn.
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4 年Completely agree! I've found many times people want to help you to figure out the answer. It can completely change the dynamic.