When Being Vulnerable at Work Really Pays Off
The culture in the workplace varies greatly from area to area, but most people would agree that there isn’t much room for human weakness in most offices. However, for an emotionally intelligent person, a little vulnerability can give you amazing strength.
Writer Gwen Moran spoke with leadership consultants Peter Bregman and Mike Robbins of Fast Company about why they advise their clients to express their feelings. They find that stronger leaders are more open and, most importantly, know when to ask for help. Weak leaders will not share “relevant concerns” about projects or other uncertainties because they are so desperate to hold on to their perceived power. As you can imagine, this can cause problems.
However, vulnerability should not involve sharing “unnecessary hardships, false humility, or creating all of the problems that come with you and your concerns.”
“Vulnerability is risk, emotional impact and uncertainty. If you think about these three things, there is really nothing meaningful or important that we could achieve or experience in our life, both personally and professionally, that does not require one, two or all three of these things, ”explains Robbins.
Here are a few benefits that can encourage you to open up a little at the right time.
You seem more confident
Admitting that you don’t understand something takes courage, especially if you have to be in charge. You show that you are firmly aware of your own abilities and personality, and that you are ready to grow. You also seem to believe that no one can take advantage of you in this moment of vulnerability – because you’re so damn strong!
“People who lack confidence in themselves often do not allow themselves to be vulnerable. But people who are really confident actually want to show themselves more, right? They want to be vulnerable because they are not afraid that someone might come and take advantage of it, ”Bregman says.
It helps people connect with you.
When you share something honest and open, it encourages people to do the same, which creates connections. For a leader, this is beneficial because people are more likely to work hard for people with whom they feel connected. Bregman says it makes colleagues feel like you’re “a real person” with them.
He talks about authenticity. While most people would probably like the boss to demonstrate confidence and control, pretending that there are no weaknesses in your skills or knowledge makes you appear fake because there is no one without weakness. You can also capitalize on these weaknesses through relationship building and teamwork.
Relieves stress for everyone
If you’re nervous, chances are, other people in the office are also nervous, whether they’re picking up your vibes or just general stress. Robbins shared an anecdote from his time playing professional baseball, admitting that he hid his nervousness about the game, only to find that his teammates were all doing the same.
Sometimes speaking out loud about what is bothering you can help relieve the anxiety, and Robbins says that then they can work better. You feel safer knowing that everyone is on the same wavelength, which means they can focus on their work. Much better than sitting in your seat and wondering if you’re alone.
Innovation happens
Asking for guidance, perspective, and answers creates more opportunities for the dissemination of new ideas. If you are in charge, then act as if everything is locked up for you, there will be no room for growth.
Employees feel valued and are part of the process. “Because you inspire trust, your team feels more motivated and more inclined to contribute,” Bregman says.
Vulnerability is a complex concept that requires a strong sense of self to maneuver. If you’ve never tried this, it might be because you’re not as strong as you think.