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Why Is Leader Vulnerability More Effective Than Just Telling a Team It’s Safe?
Discover the most powerful way for managers like Anton to foster psychological safety. Learn why showing your own vulnerability is the key to building trust and encouraging open communication, and why it surpasses other common approaches.
Question
What is a way for Anton to foster psychological safety on his team?
A. Tell his team that it is safe to speak up.
B. Take a hands-off approach.
C. Show his own vulnerability.
Answer
C. Show his own vulnerability.
Explanation
When Anton shows his own vulnerability, his team sees that it is safe for them to admit their mistakes or their feelings of uncertainty.
Psychological safety is the shared belief among team members that it is safe to take interpersonal risks, such as speaking up with ideas, questions, concerns, or admitting mistakes, without fear of punishment or humiliation. This environment is not created by decree, but by the consistent actions of the leader.
When a manager shows vulnerability, they are modeling the exact behavior they want to encourage. By admitting they don’t have all the answers, acknowledging a mistake, or asking for help, the leader sends a powerful signal that it is acceptable for everyone on the team to do the same. This action demonstrates that the team environment is one of learning and growth, not judgment and perfection. It builds trust by proving that the leader is human and approachable.
Option A is incorrect because words alone are insufficient. A manager can tell their team it is safe to speak up, but if their subsequent actions contradict this statement (e.g., they react defensively to feedback or subtly punish dissent), the words become meaningless. The team will always trust the leader’s actions over their declarations.
Option B is incorrect because a hands-off approach creates a leadership vacuum. This can lead to uncertainty, anxiety, and the formation of unsafe informal hierarchies. Fostering psychological safety is an active, not passive, process that requires the leader to be present, engaged, and intentional in setting a positive tone.
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