Humility is often seen as a weakness in the corporate world, where competitiveness and self-promotion are highly valued. However, there are newer schools of thought that promote embracing radical humility because it can lead to greater success and satisfaction for everyone.
I recently spoke with Urs Koenig, a former United Nations military peacekeeper and NATO military peacekeeping commander, and founder of the Radical Humility Leadership Institute. Urs unpacked the concept of radical humility and its impact on the workplace. Here, he explains the three components and how you can apply these insights to transform your workplace for the better.
DEVELOP SELF AWARENESS
If you’ve ever asked a direct report for feedback, you know it’s almost impossible to get an honest answer. Despite a manager’s invitation, most people are weary of giving critical feedback to their boss. Yet, feedback is an essential strategy for developing self awareness and growth. Urs encourages managers to have regular one-on-ones during which they specifically ask for feedback.
In addition to the request, it’s critical to create a safe space for team members to share their feedback. For this, Urs explains that leaders must show vulnerability, acknowledge their flaws, and take ownership of their actions and decisions. This way, the team will feel comfortable and secure when they're transparent about their views.
One way to do this is by asking about a specific growth area that you are trying to develop. By identifying your growth edge first, you make it OK for the other person to speak to it.
Introspection is another strategy for developing self awareness. Urs encourages leaders to spend time reflecting on their leadership style through useful aids such as journaling and meditation. This ongoing cycle of self-reflection and seeking external feedback creates an environment of continuous learning and improvement.
LEAD RELATIONALLY
It's important to note that displaying vulnerability is a powerful factor in building trust within a team. Research shows that when people are open about their feelings and views, they build strong connections much faster than when they keep their thoughts private.
Urs recounts a pivotal moment during his peacekeeping time that was a catalyst for trust. His commanding officer began the after action review by admitting her mistakes at the outset. By doing so, she created a safe space for each of them to acknowledge their own missteps. This act of vulnerability not only fostered trust within the team but also set a precedent for open communication and growth.
Incorporating this philosophy, a useful exercise managers can lead is the “Penny Exercise.” Assign each team member a year at random and ask them to share a significant event from their past that occurred that year. This often leads to a thread of open and authentic conversations that not only pave the way for stronger connections, but also creates a supportive work environment.
EMBRACE A GROWTH MINDSET
Leading with humility requires a tolerance if not a full embracing of failure as opportunity for growth. Urs explains that we must cultivate a culture that views mistakes as stepping stones towards growth, thereby fostering a fearless and innovative work environment.
The first step is normalizing mistakes and failures. Urs suggest we acknowledge up front that imperfection in projects and client deliverables is inevitable, despite aiming for excellence. We should embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth, while always encouraging transparency and accountability.
One way to do this is by fostering a safe environment where speaking up is valued over silence. Expressing gratitude for input, even when we may not agree, is a crucial practice in nurturing a collaborative and respectful work culture. Urs explains that we must always thank individuals for sharing their perspective, regardless of the decisions made moving forward.
As workplaces continue to evolve, cultivating a leadership approach centered on self-awareness, fostering strong relationships, and embracing a growth mindset becomes increasingly crucial. This style not only benefits you but also nurtures a positive environment where team members can thrive, collaborate effectively, and achieve shared goals together.
Listen to the entire episode HERE.
Keep up with Urs Koenig
FREE Radical Humility NOW Leadership Prompts
Urs is providing members of Podcast+ a PDF of the Radical Humility NOW Leadership NOW Prompts. These are exercises from the book that can help you apply Radical Humility in your leadership and life.
To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.
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The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive, and great work gets done.
Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!
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The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive, and great work gets done.
Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!
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