Vulnerability is the only bridge to build connection.
Brené Brown
***
In my business environment, employees rarely talk about their vulnerabilities or areas of development, if they don’t have to. Many have learned to present themselves well, which means to them that they show strength, have solutions, and prove their expertise.
I enjoy talking with individuals who are open in their conversations. Who are strong because they reflect themselves. Which includes weaknesses. It’s not about focusing on them, but it is about knowing and accepting them as a part of our personalities. And when reflecting and even sharing with colleagues about what did not go well, or how we felt miserable in a situation, or what we question about our own behavior, we set the base for growth.
The more naturally we include the vulnerable parts of our being and doing into our conversations, the more we will be able to grow. On the individual level, as a team, or in our company culture.
And I love it because it brings relationships to another level, increases trust in general, and makes conversations more interesting.
How to get started:
Start with yourself. When talking about a recent situation with your colleagues or teams, include a comment on what you reflected in your approach, where you did not feel fully comfortable, or what left you puzzled/frustrated/scared.
Then state what you plan to do about it or ask those around you how they perceived the situation.
Speak in a friendly, open, and neutral tone. Don’t become defensive or apologize for your weaknesses. Just treat them as parts of the situation. Again, the conversation should not develop into a psychoanalysis, but include the weaker parts as well as the stronger and successful ones.
This applies to all departments and hierarchy levels. If you are a leader, you can and should talk about challenges, mistakes, or your own limitations as well. It will signal to your team that you are human and that you appreciate an open communication style.
Summed up, I think that it is crucial to understand that we are all vulnerable. And that we all have our weak points. No matter if we like it or not. No matter if we decide to show or hide. No matter how hard we try to do everything right. No matter how many years of experience we collect.
If we decide to be open and include this part of us into our business conversations, we will not only strengthen relationships and understand each other better, but also increase team and business success.
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