IT’S HARD TO BE HUMBLE – OR IS IT? By Wikus van Vuuren, Director: Academic Quality at GIMT

Leadership humility is one of those rare occurrences that don’t necessarily enjoy the recognition or emphasis it often deserves. Humility is unfortunately often perceived as a weakness in business when, in fact, it can be a tremendous asset.

Humble leaders who openly understand and develop their weaknesses and capitalise on their strengths often create environments that also encourage people to grow, which in turn grows the organisation. Some of the most successful organisations worldwide have leaders who inconspicuously “stand out” due to their humble nature, rather than their arrogance and flamboyance.

Indeed, the leader who is humble never allows the power of their position to cloud his or her judgement. They have an unwavering respect for the unique contribution individuals have to make and do not emphasise and get stuck on their perceived weaknesses.

One of the greatest strengths of humble leaders is that they never assume they do know all the answers and as a result allow people to explain things to them through intensive and active listening. They look for the opportunity to learn something new and they use every opportunity to make others feel valued.

Apart from personal issues, there is no real harm in letting people know what you view as your strengths and weaknesses. A good step would be to implement a system where you can get direct feedback from your executive team, your clients, your staff and even people in your personal circle.

While this system will undoubtedly create an open and honest company culture it will also contribute significantly to your own personal growth.

Furthermore, you will connect with your manager, peers and those that report to you. You will make them feel more comfortable about exploring their own opportunities for development. As they see you make progress, they can start to envision their own potential.

Honest leaders are also good listeners. Do you have a tendency to when someone starts explaining something, you interrupt them to make sure they know that you already know what they are talking about? The next time this happens, try something new. Listen. Let them finish their explanation.

So how do you do that? Simply weave your wisdom into the conversation without letting it dominate the conversation. Ask lots of questions and when they give their answer, validate them first then add your comments.

In the act of being humble, you make others feel important and valued. That is the gift of the humble leader. Focus on your humility and you will find it will greatly simplify your life. Besides, it is more refreshing and empowering being around humble people than inflated egos.