The Vulnerable CTO

When most people think about the skills that are required to be a good CTO does vulnerability spring to mind? Maybe not but then the insightful leader would nod sagely and understand that it couples with empathy other soft skills like authenticity.


Vulnerability does not mean simpering weakness, or even humanity. It means that we ALL have the ability to be fallible, but honest and realistic. Belonging to and being part of a team be that leadership or engineers, it is important to remember that the level of commitment to that team is equal regardless of the role within it. There is a shared desire for company success, and also an investment in its failures and therefore a unified sense of vulnerability.


So what does vulnerability offer a team?


– It cuts through professional barriers and creates shared experiences especially if something challenging occurred

– It is a great way to unify and bring diverse groups of thought together, thought that very often solves problems

-It demonstrates humility especially if you need to ask for help with something you cannot do and shows a willingness to improve and learn from those who can aid you

How to demonstrate vulnerability?

  1. Be genuine and authentic especially when it comes to delicate matters
  2. Make an effort to know your teams it builds rapport and trust and you will come to support each other
  3. Don’t be concerned with rights and wrongs but hold your hands up and apologize when you are wrong, remember you are a role model
  4. There is no need to play the blame game, it erodes morale and does not teach or move people forward
  5. Recognize mistakes can happen, that people are fallible but do not make excuses
  6. Be open to sharing ideas, don’t worry about them being different or unusual, encourage debate and critical thinking
  7. Be approachable but set boundaries and respect others’ boundaries too

Ultimately vulnerability from a leader encourages openness and honesty within a team. It allows them to feel like they are supported and united in a shared goal and this strengthens the team dynamic.