If you're a leader and often feel like you're the smartest person in the company, here's an insight: it might not be true — your team could simply be afraid of you.
Fear creates stress, and stress impacts cognitive function. When people are stressed, their ability to think clearly, solve problems, and communicate effectively declines. In essence, fear can make even the smartest employees appear less competent during interactions.
When team members are intimidated, they may struggle to provide solutions or articulate ideas. Instead of focusing on your questions, their minds may be preoccupied with self-preservation and avoiding conflict.
This dynamic harms collaboration and innovation. If your team is afraid to speak freely or challenge ideas, creativity and productivity suffer.
So, what’s the solution?
Leaders should focus on creating a psychologically safe environment. This can be achieved in two ways:
- Encourage courage: Foster a culture where employees feel empowered to share opinions and take risks without fear of punishment.
- Be less intimidating: Reflect on your leadership style. Approach conversations with empathy, listen actively, and avoid being overly critical or dismissive.
Key Takeaway:
Being a great leader isn't about being the smartest person in the room. It's about creating an environment where others feel confident enough to contribute their best ideas and talents.
Project Management
1 April 2025