Vulnerability - Newsletter Series Nº 1

I felt that this topic was a good place to start with our first JA Elhardt Consulting newsletter.  I've been kicking around this idea of a newsletter for several months and have really been challenged with completing the first issue.  One of the main roadblocks to moving forward stemmed from my own fear of being vulnerable.  As I embark on my new endeavor and build out my consulting practice, naturally the fear of failure or judgement is prevalent.  I had to remind myself of some of the leadership development sessions we would hold at outsourced sales firm Acquirent .  During these sessions our topics would vary but many times we would come back to this idea of Authentic Leadership and the crucial component of that being some degree of vulnerability.  

With some self reflection and encouragement from my colleagues and clients I was able to start this discussion.  I hope that it can spark some ideas and encourage you to take some time to self reflect on the individual leader that you are.  This could be the leadership you take on in your organization or with your friends and family.  Give yourself a grade, how vulnerable do you allow yourself to be?

In this month's issue, we'll take a look at vulnerability and how the mastery of this powerful leadership technique can elevate you to be the leader you always wanted to be.  Calling it a technique almost complicates this idea.  A vulnerable leader is one who has the confidence to  make mistakes and own them instead of making excuses or finding a scapegoat.  A leader that allows themselves to be vulnerable might have the confidence to not  need to have all the answers or know everything but instead look to people around them to address challenges and solve problems without feeling threatened.  By letting your guard down and showing some humility, very naturally it will draw people to you like a magnet. 

Though it might feel counter-intuitive, the leader that learns to be vulnerable will soar above leaders who cannot adapt and grasp this concept.  By selectively showing their weaknesses, leaders can build trust by showing their authenticity.  Alternatively, if a leader tries to give the illusion that they are perfect and can make every decision themselves... well... who needs followers to help them!

what is it?
Simply put, vulnerability is the state of being exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally.

why is it difficult? 
Many leaders, especially new leaders, are terrified of losing control.  They worked hard to ascend to their positions and many times believe that showing any sign of imperfection is a weakness.