Leaders, are you too afraid to ask for help?
It’s time to break the stigma and embrace vulnerability as a sign of strength. In 2023’s fast-paced and competitive business environment, vulnerability is more important than ever. We probably all know that it’s not uncommon for leaders and their teams alike to feel pressure to perform and achieve, and the slightest hint of an economic downturn can amplify this pressure massively.
As a result, it’s important for leaders to cultivate a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel confident seeking help when it is genuinely needed. This could be as significant as seeking mental health support or as small as needing assistance with a technical issue wrangling a complex spreadsheet!
However, what if it’s the leader how needs help? In such circumstances, it can be intimidating to ask for help, as it may be perceived as a sign of weakness or incompetence. My view is straightforward here – it simply isn’t a weakness (let me know if you feel otherwise). I believe that asking for help is a sign of strength, as it allows leaders to make more informed and objective decisions by seeking out diverse perspectives and expertise. To build a culture of vulnerability, leaders should establish mentor relationships, seek out advisors with diverse expertise, and be open and gracious when asking for help.
In addition to seeking help within their own organisations, leaders should also consider reaching out to mentors and advisors outside of their comfort zones. Building relationships with trusted mentors and peers outside of the organisation can provide valuable insights and support. It is important to remember though that vulnerability is a tough skill to properly master and just because a mentor doesn’t agree with you doesn’t mean they are attacking you!
Ultimately, vulnerability is a skill that requires patience and practice, and it’s important for leaders to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. By establishing a culture of vulnerability and seeking out diverse perspectives and expertise, leaders can make better decisions and set the best example for their teams.
#leadership #vulnerability #mentor #mentalhealth #culture #leader #business