The Power of Vulnerability

Is it okay for a leader to show his / her vulnerability?

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I often wondered, in a world where leaders are mostly valued for the strengths they bring to the table, is the concept of vulnerability valid or is it unreasonable to expect from a leader? Is embracing vulnerability a sign of strength or is it a sign of weakness?

Being in the corporate world for many years and having deep interest in leadership traits and behavior, I studied closely some leaders who showed vulnerability.

Many a times showing vulnerability is taken as a sign of weakness. However, over time the same leaders were acknowledged as a person who has the courage to be have believed in oneself, and being honest about the fact that imperfections and shortcomings are part of being human. It’s about showing up and being seen as one who is not ‘faking‘ or ‘ trying to be someone else’ in order to manage perceptions.

Being vulnerable means a departure from the traditional style of leadership. So how does this trait help in leadership? Here are the top three as I see it.

1. Helps to build trust- Many a times a leader is positioned as a larger-than-life personality. In reality he / she is just another human being, maybe having a bit more experience than others . When leaders are vulnerable, it gives enough confidence to the team that he / she is one of them. This creates a culture of trust, where team members feel valued and understood for their contribution which is essential for any team to succeed, creates an environment where one will be felt heard and hence the team members will be open to further contribution.

2. Bring in authenticity:? This is one value that a leader needs to demonstrate to earn respect / commitment from his/her team. Leaders who are authentic are open to accept their mistakes, acknowledge their shortcomings. They see, this, as a way to develop themselves as a better leader.

3. Involve wider teams in decision making: Such leaders know what they do not know, and hence demonstrates that collective wisdom is better than single minded decision making. They seek for answers in others and thus been able to merge those insights in decision making . They believe in collaboration and empowerment which helps any team to perform better.

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What do these leaders do differently?

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• They are ‘themselves’ and do not pretend to be ‘someone else’
• They are self-aware and willing to develop themselves further
• They are honest in their communication & open for feedback.
• They are not scared to give credit to others and appreciates others contribution for collective success
• They foster a culture where everyone can contribute and grow

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Thus, to many, vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness. To give an example from the pandemic days, my study says, leaders who were open to their teams knowing well it is a time of crisis and they are vulnerable as they may not have the experience to manage such a situation themselves got success through wider support and could sail though such difficult times together as a team.

To conclude, vulnerability is not about seeking sympathy from others. It's about being real, who you are. After all, we all are human and being vulnerable & acknowledging it is a sign of strength – is not it?

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Look forward to your comments, would like to hear your view / experience.

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