Strategic Vulnerability

Strategic Vulnerability: Why Building Trust is the Ultimate Productivity Hack

In every workplace I’ve ever seen—whether it was an innovative startup or a traditional corporate environment—there’s one thing that separates the great leaders from the mediocre ones: connection.

And yet, so many leaders ignore this simple truth.

The Problem: Leaders Who Don’t Check In

We get it. Leaders are busy, and time is limited. But when leaders fail to check in with their teams, the disconnect grows.

I once worked with a team where upper management never asked, “What’s challenging you?” or “What’s slowing you down?” They assumed everyone was fine—until the cracks began to show. Missed deadlines, disengaged employees, and even turnover could have been avoided if someone had asked, “How can I help?”

The Solution: Strategic Vulnerability

Strategic vulnerability is about being human with your team. It’s not about oversharing—it’s about showing curiosity, empathy, and a willingness to support.

Here’s how you can start today:

• Check-In Regularly: Make time for both formal 1:1s and casual check-ins. These conversations aren’t just about “How’s the project going?” They’re about understanding what’s working, what’s not, and how you can help.
• Empower Your Team: Ask your team what resources they need. A great question is, “What would make this process faster or easier for you?” Then, provide those tools.
• Reprioritize Together: Your team might feel overwhelmed simply because they’re working on the wrong priorities. Help them focus on what truly matters by clarifying goals.

Why This Matters

Teams that trust their leaders perform better. They’re more creative, more engaged, and more likely to stick around. When you practice strategic vulnerability, you’re not just solving problems—you’re building a culture that thrives on trust and collaboration.