This episode of the Deliberate Leaders Podcast, hosted by Allison Dunn, explores the power of vulnerability in leadership. Dunn begins by acknowledging the common misconception that vulnerability is a sign of weakness, contrasting this with her emphasis that embracing vulnerability actually strengthens leadership.

The episode delves into the definition of vulnerability in leadership, clarifying that it is not about oversharing or excessive emotional displays. Instead, Dunn defines it as having the courage to show up authentically, admit when you don't have all the answers, acknowledge mistakes, and be willing to ask for help. She also references Brené Brown's definition of vulnerability as "uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure," emphasizing the removal of the protective "armor" leaders often wear.

To illustrate the impact of a lack of vulnerability, Dunn shares an anecdote about a CEO named Mark, who initially prided himself on appearing perfect and never admitting mistakes. This resulted in a disengaged team, high turnover, and a lack of innovation because his team members were afraid to take risks or share ideas. A turning point occurred when Mark admitted to his team that he was struggling with a market challenge and needed their input, dramatically shifting the team dynamic, leading to increased engagement and better ideas.

Dunn then outlines three key reasons why vulnerability is powerful in leadership:

• It builds trust: Showing your human side creates psychological safety, allowing team members to feel comfortable speaking up and taking risks.

• It fosters innovation: By demonstrating that failure is a part of learning, leaders empower their teams to experiment and be creative.

• It builds authentic connections: Relatable leaders who share challenges are more approachable and human, fostering stronger connections with their teams.

Dunn clarifies that vulnerability in leadership is not about being weak or indecisive but requires significant courage, introducing the concept of "strategic vulnerability". She provides five practical ways to practice strategic vulnerability:

• Share lessons from failures: Discussing what was learned normalizes failure as a part of growth.

• Ask for help: Phrases like "What are your thoughts?" show that it is acceptable not to have all the answers.

• Acknowledge emotions: Naming feelings humanizes the leader and validates the emotions of others.

• Admit when you're wrong: Simply stating "I was wrong" builds credibility.

• Listen deeply: Being present, asking thoughtful questions, and valuing others' perspectives are crucial.

Dunn also shares an example of a leadership team that transformed their culture by implementing a simple weekly meeting practice where each person shared one challenge and one win. This ritual improved collaboration and facilitated earlier problem-solving. The episode references research from the Center for Creative Leadership, which indicates that leaders who demonstrate vulnerability are perceived as more authentic and inspiring, and their teams report higher levels of innovation and engagement.

Towards the end of the episode, Dunn challenges listeners to consider how embracing strategic vulnerability might change their leadership and their team's response. She provides an action step for the week: to practice one act of strategic vulnerability with their team, such as admitting a mistake, asking for help, or sharing a learning experience, and to observe the outcomes.

The episode concludes by reiterating that vulnerability is not weakness but rather the ultimate form of courage in leadership, and in today's world, it is not just beneficial but a competitive advantage due to the desire for authentic connection. Allison encourages listeners to subscribe to the podcast and leave a review, reminding them that "the most deliberate leaders have the courage to be vulnerable".

About the Host:

Allison Dunn

• Host of the Deliberate Leaders Podcast

• Business Coach

• Founder of Deliberate Directions

Connect:

• Website: Deliberate Directions

• Podcast: Deliberate Leaders Podcast

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