Spot the Signs: 10 Ways Vulnerability Shows Up at Work and Why It Matters

Spot the Signs: 10 Ways Vulnerability Shows Up at Work and Why It Matters

Not everyone expresses vulnerability in the same way nor does everyone find the same things to be vulnerable. We can be vulnerable during scary or big moments like receiving candid feedback from a trusted peer or when we need to let someone go because of performance issues. We can also be vulnerable every day with small moments such as praising someone on a team, asking for help, or even listening to someone.

Being able to spot a sign of vulnerability in a co-worker will help you respond appropriately and knowing the signs will help you determine how to act when you feel vulnerable at work.

After interviewing more than 100 CEOs around the world from companies like American Airlines, DOW Chemical, Hyatt Hotels, Edward Jones, KFC, Northrop Grumman, SAP and many others, and surveying 14,000 employees around the world with DDI, I identified 10 common signs of vulnerability at work which I go through detail in my latest book, Leading With Vulnerability.


"A thoughtful, resourceful read on how leaders can be more candid about their foibles and fears without sacrificing their effectiveness. If you've recognized the importance of vulnerability but aren't sure how to bring it into your workplace, this book is for you ."~Adam Grant, #1 New York Times bestselling author of THINK AGAIN and HIDDEN POTENTIAL, and host of the TED podcast Work:Life"


As you go through these, keep in mind The Vulnerable Leader Equation, which is:

(V) Vulnerable + (L) Leader = (VL) Vulnerable Leader

Aka

Connection + Competence = Vulnerable Leadership.

You can learn more about that here.

Recall as well the definition of a vulnerable leader:

A leader who intentionally opens themselves up to the potential of emotional harm while taking action (when possible) to create a positive outcome.

You can see image of the 10 signs below and premium subscribers will get access to the full description and explanation of each one. If you want more content like this that will transform your approach to leadership, you can subscribe here.

Let’s go through each one so you can understand what they are and why they are important.

Get access to the full article by becoming a premium subscriber on Substack where each week you will get these types of articles delivered to your inbox along with other content.


Absolutely, identifying and responding to vulnerability with empathy can transform work culture! ?? Maya Angelou once said, "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Let's empower each other to foster a supportive and understanding work environment. ???? #LeadershipGrowth #EmpathyInAction

回复
Vinay Raman

?? Achieve ultimate company performance by enhancing alignment.

9 个月

Recognizing vulnerability at work is indeed a crucial aspect of effective leadership. It fosters connection, empathy, and honesty, bridging "The GAP" between perception and reality. Jacob Morgan's insights offer practical strategies for navigating this transformative journey.

回复
Kristen Brun Sharkey

Unlocking your potential with improv-infused leadership coaching, facilitation and speaking | ??? Podcast Host - Love and Leadership

9 个月

Great examples Jacob Morgan. Asking yourself, "am I showing up authentically?" and "is this how I really feel?" can be a great check if you struggle with vulnerability as a leader. Many of us were conditioned to feel like we have to always be perfect and polished as a leader, but the best leaders are authentic and are willing to admit both when they make a mistake and when they don't know the answer to something.

回复
Kelli Schroeder MBA, CFE

VP of Franchise Development at Threshold Brands

9 个月

Jacob Morgan Loved this article and the 10 vulnerability visuals!

要查看或添加评论,请登录

Jacob Morgan的更多文章

社区洞察

其他会员也浏览了