Leading with Authenticity & Vulnerability
Leadership today requires a careful balance of vulnerability and authority. A leader’s ability to authentically connect with their team not only cultivates trust but also fosters an environment of transparency and empathy. However, it’s important to recognize the fine line between being open and over-sharing.
In a recent conversation on the Destination Dream Job Podcast, Melissa Creede & I explored the power of authenticity in leadership and how leaders can effectively communicate their struggles while maintaining the respect and authority their role demands.
Here are the key insights from the episode:
1. The Importance of Transparent Communication
As a leader, it’s important to share when you’re not at your best. You don’t have to go into every detail of a personal struggle, but offering a brief, honest explanation can help your team understand your behavior.
For example, saying “I’m feeling a little off today because of something going on in my personal life” can be enough to prevent team members from speculating or making assumptions. This openness can diffuse tension and cultivate a more empathetic workplace environment.
2. Vulnerability Should Serve a Purpose
While being vulnerable is powerful, it’s crucial to ensure that it serves a constructive purpose. According to Brené Brown, the difference lies in how you process and present your struggles. You don’t need to publicly process everything you’re going through.
Instead, share the learning outcomes or the new perspectives you’ve gained from your experiences. This way, you can connect with others without unnecessarily burdening them.
3. The Impact of Leadership Position on Vulnerability
As a leader, your words carry more weight than you might realize. Even something as simple as expressing concern about the company’s future can spark unnecessary worry among employees. Leaders often don’t recognize the authority granted by their title, and casual comments can sometimes be interpreted as directives. So, while vulnerability is valuable, it’s important to be mindful of how your words might impact the team.
4. The Role of Coaches and Peers in Leadership
Leaders often find it lonely at the top, which is why it’s essential to have a coach or peers at the same level with whom you can share your concerns. Having someone to process your thoughts within a safe and confidential environment can help prevent the unnecessary burden on your team. This is especially important when dealing with sensitive or high-stakes topics that may not be appropriate for direct communication with team members.
Practical Tip: Know Your Core Values
To align with your authentic self as a leader, it's vital to understand and reflect on your core values. These values guide your decisions, behavior, and leadership style. For instance, values such as freedom, adventure, and authenticity can shape how you connect with others and handle leadership challenges. Identifying your top values can help ensure that your leadership is authentic, consistent, and aligned with who you truly are.
Conclusion: Vulnerability is Not a Weakness, It’s a Strength
Vulnerability, when shared appropriately, humanizes leadership. It shows your team that you are relatable, empathetic, and trustworthy. At the same time, leaders must be aware of the impact their openness can have on their team and balance transparency with authority. By sharing challenges thoughtfully and ensuring that your struggles serve a larger purpose, you can create an environment where employees feel valued and understood.
To dive deeper into this conversation and explore more leadership strategies, listen to the full episode of Destination Dream Job. You’ll gain insights into how vulnerability can elevate your leadership while maintaining your position of authority.
