So far in this blog series I have talked about two reasons why followers lose trust in leadership: Leaders Don't Walk the Walk and Leaders Spin Too Much. So, what completes this trinity? The answer is:
Reason #3: Leaders Don't Admit Their Mistakes
If you have been reading this blog series, some of you may be thinking that I am really throwing down the gauntlet here or trying to attack leaders, but don't confuse this topic or draw the conclusion that I am saying leaders are flat out lying to people. In some rare cases they are (again thank you politicians, you make my blog easier to write!), but more often than not they are either withholding information that proves they made a mistake or simply practicing the art of spinning (and no I am not referring to the workout craze) to mask it. As has been commonplace in this blog series, I beg the question: Why? Do leaders truly understand the perception that this brings and do they really think people will continue to follow them by staying on this course?
Now there are several ideas, philosophies, and notions that state leaders should not admit when they have made mistakes. The presumption is they lose credibility, feel it would make them look incompetent, or in some cases even lose power with those that are following them. My feeling is that this is no more than an example of obstinacy which is normally a result of their own ego. But, here again lies the complexity in leadership and shows its direct correlation back to the human element of it because everyone has their own personal philosophies, fears, uncertainties, and doubts. The real problem as I see it lies in the fact that leaders simply can't get out of their our own way!
I think we all can agree that a true leader needs the strength to recognize criticism and not simply ignore it. Unfortunately, many leaders make the mistake of thinking that ignoring criticism or less than expected outcomes translates into never admitting that they are wrong. However, to persist with an action that isn't working just to try and prove a point to themselves, is the worst thing a leader or anyone can do. Just ask our politicians. Again, thank you for the ammunition!
I personally think a true leader should ignore their ego, admit to mistakes and change course if events or results prove different than what was expected. People appreciate a leader who can stand in front of the firing line and simply admit to their mistakes at face value. In fact, it actually increases the trust and loyalty by fashioning the leader as a human being in the eyes of its followers and drastically reduces any negative perception that would otherwise be created. Now of course if a leader continues to make mistake after mistake after mistake, followers will and should question a leader's competence and overall ability regardless if the leader wants to admit to it or not.
So what is my point in all of this? My point is by a leader admitting their mistakes followers learn that their leaders are serious about being open, honest, responsible and most importantly accountable for what they do. Isn't this the foundation to creating trust and loyalty anyway?
Thoughts?
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