Vulnerability. It’s a word that often carries a sense of discomfort, especially for leaders. After all, aren’t leaders supposed to exude unwavering confidence and control? The truth is, vulnerability in leadership is not a weakness—it’s a strength. It’s about being vulnerable yet confident, showing your human side while inspiring trust, courage, and authenticity within your team.
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In fact, some of the greatest leaders have mastered the art of balancing confidence as a leader with the willingness to show emotion. Think of the Stockdale Paradox: Admiral James Stockdale remained resolutely confident about overcoming adversity while being brutally honest about the challenges he faced. This paradox captures the heart of vulnerability in leadership—it’s about facing reality while maintaining hope and resilience.
When we talk about showing vulnerability as a leader, it’s not about oversharing or losing composure. It’s about being open enough to admit mistakes, share personal experiences, and express emotions in a way that connects you with your team. As Brené Brown, a renowned advocate for vulnerability, says: “Vulnerability is not about winning or losing. It’s having the courage to show up when you can’t control the outcome.”
In this article, we’ll explore how leaders can use vulnerability to their advantage, turning it into a tool for deeper connections, greater trust, and long-lasting influence. From understanding the meaning of vulnerabilities to embracing the pratfall effect and preparing for those dreaded interview questions about weaknesses, this guide will empower you to lead with both strength and authenticity.
Table of Contents
1. What Does Vulnerability Mean in Leadership?
Defining vulnerability and understanding its importance in leadership.
2. Why Vulnerability is a Strength, Not a Weakness
The benefits of showing vulnerability as a leader, including the pratfall effect.
3. Examples of Vulnerability in Leadership
Real-life stories of leaders who embraced vulnerability and inspired their teams.
4. How to Show Vulnerability While Staying Confident
Practical tips for balancing vulnerable yet confident leadership.
5. Overcoming the Fear of Vulnerability
Strategies to address the discomfort and fear of being vulnerable.
6. The Connection Between Courage and Vulnerability
Exploring the interplay of bravery and openness in leadership.
7. Leveraging the Stockdale Paradox in Leadership
Lessons from history about balancing hope and realism.
8. How Vulnerability Improves Team Dynamics
The impact of vulnerable leadership on trust, collaboration, and morale.
9. Preparing for Questions About Weaknesses in Interviews
Answering what to say about weaknesses in an interview with confidence.
10. Transforming Weaknesses into Strengths
Turning vulnerabilities into powerful leadership assets.
11. Summary and Conclusion: Embracing Vulnerability as a Path to Authentic Leadership
1. What Does Vulnerability Mean in Leadership?
When people hear the word “vulnerability,” they often associate it with weakness, insecurity, or even failure. But in the context of leadership, vulnerability takes on a completely different meaning. It’s about being authentic, open, and human. Leaders who embrace vulnerability aren’t afraid to admit they don’t have all the answers, to share their struggles, or to acknowledge their imperfections.
The definition of vulnerability in leadership lies in recognising that nobody is perfect. By showing that they too face challenges, leaders create an environment where others feel safe to share their own difficulties. This willingness to be open fosters trust and loyalty, two pillars of effective leadership.
But being vulnerable doesn’t mean giving up control or authority. Instead, it’s about balancing openness with confidence. This is what makes a leader vulnerable yet confident. Employees are inspired by leaders who demonstrate courage in being transparent while maintaining a clear vision and direction for the team.
For example, during times of organisational change, leaders who acknowledge uncertainty while remaining optimistic set the tone for resilience. They reassure their teams that, despite the challenges, there’s a plan forward. This aligns with the Stockdale Paradox, which teaches leaders to confront harsh realities while maintaining unwavering faith in success.
As Brené Brown puts it, “Vulnerability is not about winning or losing; it’s about having the courage to show up when you can’t control the outcome.” This openness is not only a hallmark of strong leadership but also a pathway to deeper connections and stronger teams.
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For years, traditional leadership models glorified invulnerability—leaders were expected to project unwavering confidence, perfection, and control. But as workplaces evolve, the importance of vulnerability in leadership is becoming clearer. Far from being a weakness, vulnerability is a powerful tool that strengthens relationships and drives results.
One psychological phenomenon that supports this idea is the pratfall effect. This theory suggests that people find leaders more relatable and likable when they make small mistakes or show imperfections. Why? Because it humanises them. Employees are more willing to trust and support leaders who come across as genuine rather than unapproachable.
For example, imagine a manager admitting during a meeting, “I made the wrong call on this, but here’s what I’ve learned and how we’ll move forward.” This kind of honesty doesn’t undermine their authority—it builds respect and credibility. It shows the team that the leader is willing to learn and grow, which in turn inspires them to do the same.
Additionally, showing vulnerability as a leader creates psychological safety. When employees see their leaders being open and honest, they’re more likely to share their own ideas, take risks, and voice concerns. This culture of openness drives innovation and problem-solving, which are critical for any business’s success.
As the Swedish saying goes, “Det är mänskligt att fela”—“It’s human to make mistakes.” Leaders who embrace their humanity, rather than hide it, cultivate stronger and more motivated teams.
3. Examples of Vulnerability in Leadership
Real-world examples of vulnerability in leadership demonstrate how powerful this approach can be. From global CEOs to small business owners, leaders across industries have used openness and authenticity to connect with their teams and achieve remarkable outcomes.
Howard Schultz, Former CEO of Starbucks
When Howard Schultz returned to Starbucks during a period of declining sales, he openly admitted the company had lost its way. Instead of deflecting blame or sugar-coating the challenges, he addressed them head-on with his employees. This honesty rallied the team and revitalised the company’s culture.
Jacinda Ardern, Former Prime Minister of New Zealand
Known for her empathetic leadership style, Ardern exemplified vulnerable leadership. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she frequently admitted the uncertainties her government faced while maintaining a calm and confident demeanour. Her approach resonated with citizens and earned widespread respect.
Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft
When Nadella became CEO, he prioritised transforming Microsoft’s culture. He openly shared personal stories, such as his experience raising a son with cerebral palsy, to inspire empathy and inclusivity within the organisation. This vulnerability became a cornerstone of Microsoft’s success under his leadership.
These examples highlight that vulnerability isn’t about exposing weakness—it’s about showing strength through honesty and authenticity.
Actionable Tip: Reflect on a time when being vulnerable strengthened your connection with others. Use this experience as a foundation for incorporating openness into your leadership style.
4. How to Show Vulnerability While Staying Confident
Balancing vulnerability and confidence is an art that every leader can master with practice. Here’s how to do it effectively:
1. Start Small
Begin by sharing small personal experiences or lessons learned. For example, you could admit, “I once underestimated a project timeline, and here’s what I learned from it.” This shows humility without compromising your authority.
2. Focus on Growth
Frame vulnerability as part of a growth mindset. When admitting a mistake, emphasise what you’ve learned and how it benefits the team moving forward. This aligns with the definition of leadership—guiding others while demonstrating accountability.
3. Be Selective
While openness is important, oversharing can backfire. Share stories that are relevant to the situation and inspire trust rather than undermine confidence. For example, discussing a personal struggle in a team meeting might be appropriate, but complaining about unrelated stress might not.
4. Listen Actively
Vulnerability isn’t just about speaking—it’s about listening. Create space for employees to share their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. This mutual openness strengthens bonds and builds a culture of trust.
5. Maintain Composure
Vulnerability doesn’t mean losing control. Express emotions authentically, but stay composed to reassure your team that you’re still a confident and capable leader.
Actionable Tip: Practice active listening during one-on-one meetings. When employees see you genuinely care, they’ll be more willing to trust and follow your lead.
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Many leaders hesitate to embrace vulnerability out of fear—fear of judgment, fear of losing authority, or fear of showing perceived weakness. However, avoiding vulnerability often creates a bigger barrier between leaders and their teams. To inspire trust and collaboration, leaders must address this fear head-on.
1. Acknowledge Your Discomfort
The first step is recognising and accepting that vulnerability feels uncomfortable. It’s natural to fear judgment or criticism, but understanding that everyone experiences these fears helps you reframe vulnerability as a sign of courage rather than weakness.
2. Focus on Connection, Not Perfection
Remember that your goal as a leader isn’t to appear flawless—it’s to connect with your team. Employees are more likely to trust leaders who show their human side. Embracing vulnerability is about building stronger relationships, not compromising your credibility.
3. Take Small Risks
Start by taking small steps outside your comfort zone. Share a personal story during a team meeting, admit to a recent mistake, or ask for feedback. Over time, these actions will build your confidence in showing vulnerability.
4. Shift Your Perspective
Instead of viewing vulnerability as a weakness, see it as a strength that enables growth. Brené Brown’s quote on vulnerability captures this perfectly: “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.”
5. Embrace Feedback
Open yourself to feedback from your team, even if it’s critical. This demonstrates humility and a willingness to grow, which strengthens your position as a leader.
Actionable Tip: Journal about moments when you felt vulnerable as a leader. Reflect on the outcomes—chances are, those moments led to stronger connections and valuable lessons.
6. The Connection Between Courage and Vulnerability
It takes courage to embrace vulnerability. The two go hand in hand, forming the foundation of authentic leadership. Leaders who show courage in being vulnerable inspire their teams to do the same, creating an environment of trust and psychological safety.
1. Leading by Example
Courageous leaders model vulnerability by sharing their experiences and challenges. When employees see this openness, they feel empowered to contribute their ideas and share their concerns without fear of judgment.
2. Balancing Strength and Openness
Courage doesn’t mean ignoring fear—it means facing it with strength and determination. Leaders who balance confidence as a leader with vulnerability demonstrate that they are both capable and approachable.
3. Creating a Safe Space
When leaders show courage in vulnerability, they foster a culture where employees feel safe to be themselves. This sense of belonging improves engagement, collaboration, and overall team performance.
4. Encouraging Honest Conversations
Leaders who embrace vulnerability encourage open dialogue. For example, during challenging times, admitting uncertainty can lead to honest conversations that uncover innovative solutions.
5. Building Emotional Resilience
Courage and vulnerability also build emotional resilience. By facing challenges openly and learning from them, leaders strengthen their ability to navigate future difficulties.
Actionable Tip: During team meetings, share a story about a time you overcame fear to achieve success. Use this as a way to inspire courage and openness within your team.
7. Leveraging the Stockdale Paradox in Leadership
The Stockdale Paradox, popularised by Jim Collins in “Good to Great“, offers a powerful lesson for leaders: balance unwavering faith in success with a willingness to confront harsh realities. This paradox is a masterclass in vulnerable yet confident leadership.
1. Confront Reality
Leaders who acknowledge challenges without sugar-coating them gain credibility. Employees appreciate honesty and are more likely to trust leaders who face problems head-on.
2. Maintain Optimism
While acknowledging difficulties, leaders must also instil hope and confidence in the future. This balance reassures teams and motivates them to persevere through tough times.
3. Learn from History
Admiral James Stockdale survived years as a prisoner of war by balancing optimism with realism. His approach demonstrates that vulnerability is not about despair—it’s about facing challenges with resilience and courage.
4. Apply to Business Challenges
In business, the Stockdale Paradox can guide leaders through crises. Whether it’s navigating economic uncertainty or addressing internal challenges, this mindset fosters strength and adaptability.
5. Inspire Your Team
By embodying the Stockdale Paradox, leaders inspire their teams to remain hopeful while tackling challenges. This approach creates a culture of resilience and determination.
Actionable Tip: During challenging times, communicate openly with your team about both the difficulties and the steps being taken to address them.
8. How Vulnerability Improves Team Dynamics
When leaders embrace vulnerability in leadership, they create an atmosphere of trust, openness, and collaboration. Vulnerability is the secret ingredient to fostering healthy team dynamics where every individual feels valued and empowered to contribute.
1. Building Psychological Safety
Psychological safety is the belief that it’s okay to take risks and voice opinions without fear of ridicule or retribution. When leaders show vulnerability—by admitting mistakes or sharing personal struggles—they set the tone for this kind of safe environment.
2. Enhancing Collaboration
Teams thrive when members feel they can be honest and open with each other. Vulnerable leaders encourage open dialogue and mutual respect, breaking down silos and promoting collaboration.
3. Strengthening Trust
Trust is a cornerstone of effective teamwork. When leaders demonstrate transparency, employees are more likely to trust them and each other. This trust fosters stronger bonds and a sense of unity within the team.
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4. Encouraging Innovation
Innovation requires risk-taking, and risk-taking requires a willingness to fail. Leaders who embrace vulnerable leadership examples show their teams that it’s okay to fail, as long as lessons are learned. This mindset encourages creativity and out-of-the-box thinking.
5. Improving Conflict Resolution
Vulnerability helps leaders address conflicts with empathy and understanding. By approaching disagreements with openness, they model constructive behaviour for their teams.
Actionable Tip: Schedule regular “retrospectives” with your team to reflect on successes and challenges. Use these sessions to share your own insights and encourage team members to do the same.
9. Preparing for Questions About Weaknesses in Interviews
As a leader, you’ll often be asked about your weaknesses in interviews. While this question can feel like a trap, it’s actually an opportunity to showcase vulnerability and self-awareness. The key is to frame your weaknesses as areas of growth.
1. Be Honest but Strategic
Choose a real weakness that doesn’t undermine your ability to lead. For example, you might say, “I’ve historically struggled with delegation, but I’ve worked hard to build trust in my team and improve in this area.”
2. Highlight Progress
When discussing weaknesses, focus on the steps you’ve taken to address them. This demonstrates a growth mindset and a willingness to learn—both of which are key leadership traits.
3. Avoid Overused Answers
Steer clear of clichés like “I’m a perfectionist.” Instead, choose something unique and genuine, such as a skill you’re actively working on.
4. Turn Weaknesses into Strengths
Frame your response to show how your weakness has made you a better leader. For example, acknowledging that you over-prepare could lead to a discussion about your commitment to excellence.
5. Stay Confident
Answering this question with composure reinforces the idea that you’re vulnerable yet confident. It shows that you’re self-aware and not afraid to admit imperfection.
Actionable Tip: Practice answering what to say about weaknesses in an interview with a trusted friend or mentor to refine your delivery.
10. Transforming Weaknesses into Strengths
The greatest leaders know that vulnerabilities can be powerful assets. By reframing weaknesses as opportunities for growth, you can turn them into strengths that inspire and empower those around you.
1. Acknowledge Your Weaknesses
Start by being honest with yourself about your areas for improvement. Self-awareness is the first step toward growth.
2. Leverage Support Systems
Use your team’s strengths to complement your own. For example, if public speaking isn’t your forte, lean on a team member who excels in presentations.
3. Learn from Failure
Every setback is a chance to grow. Reflect on past failures and identify the lessons they’ve taught you. This aligns perfectly with the idea of vulnerable yet confident leadership.
4. Emphasise Your Efforts
Highlight the work you’re doing to overcome challenges. For example, attending leadership workshops or seeking mentorship demonstrates a commitment to improvement.
5. Inspire Others with Your Journey
Sharing your growth story can motivate your team to embrace their own vulnerabilities and work toward their goals.
Actionable Tip: Keep a journal of your personal and professional growth. Use it to track progress and share insights with your team when appropriate.
11. Summary and Conclusion: Embracing Vulnerability as a Path to Authentic Leadership
Vulnerability in leadership is a powerful, yet often misunderstood, tool. Far from being a weakness, it’s a strength that allows leaders to connect with their teams on a deeper level, foster trust, and inspire growth. Leaders who are vulnerable yet confident demonstrate authenticity and courage, creating an environment where both employees and the organisation can thrive.
Throughout this article, we’ve explored how vulnerability enhances team dynamics, improves decision-making, and strengthens relationships. From real-world examples of vulnerable leadership to actionable strategies for balancing openness with confidence, the evidence is clear: vulnerability is an essential leadership trait.
But embracing vulnerability takes practice. It requires overcoming fear, admitting imperfections, and being open to growth. As the Finnish proverb goes, “Se mikä ei tapa, vahvistaa”—“What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” By facing your vulnerabilities, you not only grow as a leader but also inspire those around you to do the same.
Ultimately, vulnerability is about leading with heart. It’s about recognising that your imperfections make you human—and that humanity is what drives connection, innovation, and resilience. Whether you’re preparing for an interview, managing a team, or navigating challenges, embracing vulnerability will help you lead with authenticity and impact.
Now is the time to reflect on your leadership style and consider how you can incorporate vulnerability into your approach. Take small steps, seek feedback, and celebrate progress. Your team—and your business—will thank you for it 😉
Consider other skills that will help you enhance your business acumen:
- The Business Case for Ethical AI: Building Trust in a Digital Age
- System Vulnerabilities: Safeguarding Your Business in a Digital World
- Vulnerability in Leadership: The Key to Confident and Authentic Leadership
- Building a Thriving Workplace Through Diversity and Inclusion
- Maximising Social Media for Business Growth: A Modern Guide
