CEOs struggle to be authentic and vulnerable: McKinsey

This stems from a lack of introspection and connection with themselves.

Whilst leaders, including CEOs, are often expected to display authenticity and vulnerability, many are uncertain about how to embody these traits effectively, according to McKinsey.

This gap stems from a lack of introspection and connection with themselves, which hinders their ability to relate meaningfully to their teams, it added.

McKinsey advises leaders to shift their focus from proving their worth to improving themselves, fostering an open mindset oriented towards personal growth. By doing so, leaders can take calculated risks, invest in relationships, and operate with authenticity, which is crucial for building trust—a key determinant of team success.

To cultivate trust, McKinsey emphasises that leaders must balance demonstrating vulnerability without compromising their authority. The report cites examples like Steve Jobs, who evolved to share more openly about his personal struggles, illustrating the power of vulnerability in leadership.

The report also highlights how emotional triggers can negatively influence leadership behaviour if unaddressed. Leaders must learn to recognise and manage such triggers constructively, McKinsey said.

An example provided is of a CEO who realised her defensive reactions at board meetings stemmed from an old need to be "right," which she ultimately overcame through self-awareness and recalibrating her responses.

McKinsey acknowledges the potential risks of vulnerability, such as diminished influence or increased criticism, but argues that transparency and authenticity enhance leadership credibility and foster stronger connections. 

Leaders are encouraged to balance their decision-making power with openness to diverse perspectives, using both a "to-do" and a "to-be" list to align their actions with their character and desired leadership traits.

Overall, McKinsey stresses that vulnerability is not a weakness but a source of strength when leaders learn to channel their emotions into positive energy and constructive leadership.