Vulnerability is not a sign of a confident leader

There is a big push for authentic leaders to show their “vulnerability” and that only then will they be able to lead effectively. I disagree.

Looking at the meaning of “vulnerable” it would place any leader in a position of weakness.  Leaders always need to show they are in a position of strength.

vulnerable

ˈvʌln(ə)rəb(ə)l/

exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally.”we were in a vulnerable position”

 (of a person) in need of special care, support, or protection because of age, disability, or risk of abuse or neglect.

A confident leader has the all-important role of designing and holding onto a powerful and clear vision that others will follow. They need to communicate that vision and be 100% confident in all the decisions they make.

Showing signs of weakness or vulnerability does not instill a sense of confidence in those being led and can have devastating effects on any business.

A company’s culture is set from the top and ripples down through the rest of the organisation via attitudes, conversations, decisions and activities.

If the leader is perceived as weak and vulnerable then soon the whole organisation will follow suit and that will become a part of the “brand” to the external marketplace and community.

Even though I don’t agree with leaders showing their vulnerability, I do believe however that compassion and honesty are required.

People want to see leaders who show compassion and are honest about where they are headed.

Compassion

kəmˈpaʃ(ə)n/

noun

noun: compassion; plural noun: compassions

sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others.

A ruthless leader is not a loved leader. However, a leader who can show their compassionate side even in the smallest way will become not only a leader but an example to those who are following. This comes from within, you genuinely care about people or you don’t.

Honesty

ˈɒnɪsti/

The quality of being honest.

Being honest doesn’t mean you lose the filter we all should have and especially so for a leader.  It means being honest with people around you and also setting out clearly where you are going, how you’re going to get there.

If there is a problem, rule of thumb is to yes be open about it but never discuss a problem without your confident solution to follow. Again, people want a confident leader not someone who looks like they will fall apart at the slightest problem.

So be careful the next time someone is trying to get you to show vulnerability in a position of power, instead, take the view that a strong confident leader is compassionate and honest.

Amanda Rose is the only ‘strategic connector’ in Australia, a brand strategist, speaker, host of Amanda Rose TV, founder and CEO of The Business Woman Media. Quoted as an “internet winning blogger” by TIME.com. Follow Amanda on Twitter.