DON’T BURY YOUR FEELINGS AND EMOTIONS Workplace Vulnerability Can Yield Benefits
Some people may think showing vulnerability in the workplace is a sign of weakness. But it’s actually a sign of strength and can positively impact your team and work culture. Now is the time for business owners and managers to step out of their comfort zone and practice vulnerability. Why? Because a survey by Catalyst showed that employees are willing to put in more effort and go the extra mile when their managers are open and show vulnerability. Why should you show signs of vulnerability at work? Showing vulnerability in the workplace demonstrates you can take accountability for your actions, admit when you made a mistake, and ask for help when you need it. When you show signs of vulnerability, it will encourage your employees to be vulnerable — which can build trust and strengthen bonds. In addition, being vulnerable will boost your team’s psychological safety, which means they will be more willing to voice their concerns, opinions, ideas, and criticism without fear. This openness allows you to communicate more efficiently and comfortably with your team. When your employees share more, you learn more, and everyone can become more productive and efficient in the workplace. Overall, vulnerability will positively impact your work culture in many ways. But how do you begin implementing vulnerability in your business plan? How can you, as a leader, encourage this? Well, it all starts with you. Acknowledge and share your feelings, wins, and losses. It’s easy to sweep your emotions under the rug. However, instead of overlooking your feelings, wins, and failures, share those with your team. Take time to understand your own
feelings, why an outcome was good or bad, and how you can use these experiences to help your company. Once you analyze how you’re feeling, share these thoughts with your team. While it might be intimidating to do this, you will develop a stronger sense of community with your employees. Touch base with your employees frequently. You may already have systems in place to connect with your team. If you do, use these avenues to communicate with your team. While you must voice your feelings, encourage your employees to do the same — and reassure them it’s needed and safe to do so! Some people may not feel comfortable voicing their concerns in front of others, so provide your team with different platforms and options. This will only strengthen your relationship with them, making them feel more comfortable when their voices are heard and valued. Take action! Giving your employees a platform to vocalize their feelings and concerns is great. But do you really hear them? Show you’ve listened to them by making needed adjustments to your work environment that reflect their thoughts and feedback. While you may find it challenging to be vulnerable, imagine how tough it is for your employees to trust it’s safe for them to show it. Taking action and making changes will encourage your team to continue to confide in you. Showing vulnerability should be the No. 1 tool you use to enhance the relationships between you and your team members. If you implement vulnerability into your leadership role and at your company, your work culture will nurture trust, empathy, innovation, inclusivity, and feedback to grow your business.
CraigHansonCPA.com
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