In my training and consulting work, I am frequently and discreetly told during breaks “I didn’t handle myself too well this morning” or “I was so frustrated with my team yesterday, I just screamed at them.” When I hear comments such as these, I ask the confessor, “So, did you admit to them that you messed up?” More often than not, I am answered with a guilty look and a hushed “No.”
One of the most respected qualities of a leader is honesty. If we cannot be honest with others when we make a mistake, we are not leaders; we are just pretending to be a leader. No one enjoys working with someone who does not admit mistakes or who never sees his or her own faults.
When we’re facing challenges at work, no one handles all situations perfectly. Because—and this is an easy one—no one is perfect! So why not honestly and openly admit when we make a mistake? What are we afraid of?
As leaders, the sooner we admit to a mistake, the sooner we can correct it and focus on doing things right.
Finally, ask yourself, “Of all the leaders I have had the opportunity to work with over the years, weren’t the ones who earned my respect the ones who were honest in admitting their mistakes? There is your answer, follow their lead and become a courageous leader.
Copyright MMII – Liz Weber, CMC, CSP – Weber Business Services, LLC – www.WBSLLC.com +1.717.597.8890
Liz supports clients with strategic and succession planning, as well as leadership training and executive coaching. Learn more on about Liz on LinkedIn!