In this month's Ready to Rise webinar, we cracked open a topic that often divides the room: vulnerability in leadership.
The conversation was sparked by a podcast a community member shared, where Seth Godin - a thinker I usually admire – espoused a position that vulnerability has no place in the workplace. He used examples like surgeons and pilots, where yes, I’d agree: when your life is quite literally in someone’s hands, you probably don’t want to hear about their self-doubt.
But in most business settings, leadership doesn’t operate in a cockpit or an operating theatre. It thrives in human connection. And vulnerability, when used intentionally, is one of the most powerful tools we have to build trust, deepen engagement, and grow stronger teams.
The key question isn’t should you be vulnerable - it’s why are you being vulnerable?
There’s a world of difference between sharing something to help your team understand, grow, or reflect - and offloading emotion for your own catharsis. Vulnerability becomes unhelpful when it creates instability, especially if the people you’re speaking to have no agency to impact what you’re describing.
But when it’s done thoughtfully? Vulnerability cuts through the noise. It reminds your team that leadership doesn’t require perfection. That bumps, bruises, and doubt are part of the journey, and it gives them permission to show up honestly too.
We’re beyond the era of the flawless female executive who never blinks and never bends. Today’s most impactful leaders know how to lead with strength and humanity.
Here’s how to use vulnerability as a leadership asset:
· Be intentional - Know why you’re sharing and what you want your audience to take away.
· Be audience-aware - Share appropriately based on who you’re speaking to and what role they play.
· Be values-led - Anchor your vulnerability in the kind of leader you want to be, not just how you feel in the moment.
As you rise, remember: authenticity isn’t about confessing every fear. It’s about being real enough to inspire trust, and strategic enough to lead with purpose.
Let me know where you think the line is between helpful vulnerability and oversharing.
Until next time,
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