I really enjoyed your blog on apologies. Imagine how different relationships would be if people just said, “I’m sorry.”

Thanks for your thoughts. Some leaders may think that if they don’t have the answer, it’s a sign of weakness. Asking for help is actually a sign of strength. Insecurities in this space can drive leaders to put on this “front” that they are always always in control and know exactly what needs to be done.

Saying “I don’t know,” “I was wrong” or the big one, “I’m sorry” are phrases many leaders struggle with. Leaders who can be open and vulnerable like this usually are pleasantly surprised by the reaction of their people. They are supportive, they understand that you are human and they now feel more comfortable that they can share openly or let down down their guard.

Once the walls are down on both sides, all attention can be focused on building a great organization that involves and rewards everyone. The leader needs to make this happen. Thanks again for your input!

Derrick

Humbleness is an attractive trait in a leader, though it is often unrewarded or even rewarded punitively. You mentioned that “Being vulnerable in front of your people shows humility.” Perhaps some leaders struggle with the distinction between “humility” and “humiliated.” They share the same root word, humilis (Latin, meaning “low”), but the connotations are vastly different. Leaders w/o all the answers use “complementary” recruiting to round out their teams. Leaders who think they have the answers may attempt the same thing–yet they feel humiliated or “on-upped” when their employees bring solutions or concerns. Potential value is lost and disincentivized employees become prone to apathy or attrition.

Keep writing,
Karen

Thanks for your thoughts. A combination of cash compensation, gifts and special recognition need to be included to really show the organization truly values the contributions of its people. Please stay in touch!

Derrick

All your ideas are “spot on”. Where you mention celebrate successes you said “reward”. I have personally seen organizations get great ideas through contests with cash or gift awards. Some companies do that on a rolling basis.

Great thoughts.

Jay

Thanks for your words. Most people I’ve talked to have had similar experiences. Unfortunately, it seems to be the norm instead of the exception.

We need leaders that, on a day to day basis, cultivate an environment that allows it’s people to do create, innovate, solve and implement. I believe this is leadership’s biggest challenge. Please stay in touch so we can continue this great conversation.

Derrick