Great Leaders say "I don't know" and "I don't know what I don't know"

Great leaders often say "I don't know" and "I don't know what I don't know." The courage to admit this to oneself and to the team is a powerful leadership trait for several reasons:

1. Avoiding Blind Leadership: By acknowledging their limitations, leaders can avoid making uninformed decisions that could lead to significant downfalls. This humility ensures decisions are made with a full understanding of the risks and unknowns.
    
2. Empowering Team Members: When leaders recognize their gaps in knowledge, it creates opportunities for team members to step up and share their expertise. This not only leverages the collective intelligence of the team but also fosters a culture of collaboration and mutual respect.
    
3. Encouraging a Learning Culture: By normalizing the idea that it's okay not to know everything, leaders can create an environment where continuous learning and development are valued. This encourages team members to ask questions, seek out new information, and develop their skills.
    
4. Developing Latent Talents: Admitting gaps in knowledge encourages those who do know, or at least know more than the leader, to have the confidence to display and develop their talents in front of their peers. This not only enhances individual growth but also strengthens the overall capability of the team.

Overall, these traits can lead to more informed decision-making, a stronger and more engaged team, and a culture that values growth and learning.

A notable example of a leader who embodies this trait is Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft. Nadella is known for his humility and willingness to admit when he doesn't have all the answers. This approach has been central to his leadership success and has significantly transformed Microsoft's culture.

When Nadella took over as CEO in 2014, he emphasized the importance of a growth mindset, encouraging employees to embrace learning and development. He often speaks about the value of saying "I don't know" and the importance of being curious and open to new ideas.

This has led to a more collaborative and innovative environment at Microsoft, helping the company regain its position as a leader in the tech industry. Nadella's leadership style has not only driven Microsoft's financial success but also fostered a culture where employees feel empowered to share their knowledge and continuously learn.