Business Case Studies & Business Publications

Leading with Vulnerability

Belmi, Peter, Thom...

Exercise

Leading with Vulnerability

Belmi, Peter; Thomas-Hunt, Melissa C.

OB-1398 | Published July 6, 2022 | 3 pages Exercise

Collection: Darden School of Business

Add To Cart Buy Now

Product Details

"Leading with Vulnerability" helps leaders practice the skill of "powering down"— exercising influence through the practice of deliberately elevating others and taking interpersonal risks. Over two rounds, students work in small groups and practice listening and self-disclosure. They answer questions about themselves, including the origin and meaning of their name, their most desired dinner guest, and their highest personal and professional aspirations. They listen as others answer, sharing in an environment of confidentiality and care. This exercise has been successfully taught at the University of Virginia Darden School of Business in the executive education format and a first-year MBA organizational behavior course called "Leading Organizations." In this required course, students learn foundational leadership competencies for managers seeking to operate in a global business environment. These include (1) self-awareness, (2) relationship-building and interpersonal skills, (3) skills related to managing groups and teams, and (4) change-management skills.

By the end of the exercise, students will have - practiced the ability to let themselves become more fully known to others within a safe space; - discovered how to use vulnerability as a skill to become more impactful and authentic leaders; and - practiced techniques for building deeper connections with peers through intentional openness.