I don’t know

When leaders say "I don't know", they are considered being vulnerable, honest, and authentic. They earn more respect.

When junior professionals or people in marginalized groups say "I don't know". They are considered incapable, incompetent, and lack of initiative. They trustworthiness can be impacted.

Is this fair? Absolutely not.

"I don't know" should be a neutral statement. It simply acknowledges a gap in knowledge. Leaders' "I don't know" doesn't need to be glorified, and the same statement from others doesn't need to be used against them.

Is your workplace safe for everyone to say "I don't know"?