When should you be vulnerable?
Do you think it’s good to be vulnerable in the workplace?
Listen to today for different ways to open up and make better connections at work.
They’ll share vocabulary for letting your walls down.
Are you vulnerable?
Lindsay asks Aubrey her opinion on being vulnerable.
Aubrey says it depends on what is meant by “vulnerable.”
A student asked in our Q&A about the 2 meanings of vulnerable.
Aubrey adds that she doesn’t want to seem weak in general or like she is a pushover.
However, in relationships she tries to be open and vulnerable to make better connections.
Today’s episode was inspired by a listener’s question on the different meanings of vulnerability.
Lindsay and Aubrey share the different meanings of vulnerability and share when you should be vulnerable.
Vulnerability in the workplace
Being vulnerable can be a good thing in the right situations.
Timing is important to consider when you’re opening yourself up.
Aubrey and Lindsay share different situations.
For each, they provide examples for the different definitions.
#1: Susceptible to harm
Here, the word ‘vulnerable’ means something or someone is exposed to the possibility of being harmed.
The noun for referring to this is ‘vulnerability.’
For a company, when it’s vulnerable, you’ll hear terms like ‘hostile takeover.’
This could happen a few different ways.
A company might attempt to acquire another company against the will of the target company’s management.
It may be without the approval of its board of directors.
This often happens when someone appeals to a company’s shareholders to buy their shares at a premium price to gain control
Examples:
- Our company needs to uphold its HR policies so we’re not vulnerable to lawsuits.
- Because of its mismanagement, the company was vulnerable to a hostile takeover.
- We need to assess any vulnerability this merger could cause.
- Recent tariffs have created vulnerability in our supply chains.
#2: Vulnerability
This means openly sharing emotions, thoughts, and insecurities in order to build deeper connections and trust.
This is often done in personal relationships.
When you are with someone you’re comfortable with and have a deep relationship, being vulnerable comes with the relationship.
You can also be vulnerable to some of your workmates.
When you’ve been working closely with each other, it can happen that the connections run deeper beyond the professional setting.
In this case, co-workers become good friends.
Brene Brown’s TED Talk entitled “The Power of Vulnerability” touches on the topic of vulnerability.
She shares that vulnerability is not a weakness but a crucial element for building meaningful connections, fostering authenticity, and living a fulfilling life
Example:
- Should we be vulnerable with coworkers or just close friends or family?
Roleplay
Here is a quick roleplay using the tips and vocabulary shared in today’s episode.
This will help you better understand how to use this in a proper conversation.
In this scenario, Aubrey and Lindsay are coworkers and close friends at a company that has had recent layoffs.
Aubrey: I feel like my job is vulnerable now that all these layoffs are happening.
Lindsay: I’m right there with you. This vulnerability is not a great feeling.
Aubrey: I guess the company was vulnerable to closing down so it was their only choice.
Lindsay: I get it. Hey, how are things going with that guy you were dating?
Aubrey: Okay. I think I need to learn to be more vulnerable. It’s tough – no one wants to get hurt!
Takeaway
Being vulnerable is essential for building genuine connections, both personally and professionally.
By opening up and sharing our emotions, thoughts, and insecurities, we foster trust and deepen relationships.
Vulnerability isn’t a sign of weakness, but a powerful tool for creating meaningful connections.
In the workplace, while it’s important to be cautious, being open with trusted coworkers can lead to stronger bonds and better collaboration.
Embracing vulnerability ultimately helps us build authentic, supportive relationships that enrich our lives.
Remember, Connection NOT Perfection™
You don’t have to keep your guard up when wanting to make valuable connections.
Take into consideration the advice you’ve learned in today’s episode.
How much do you share at work with your co-workers?
Let us know your story on opening up at work in the comments below.
