Is showing vulnerability in the workplace appropriate?

Two hairdressers share their thoughts on being brutally honest about shortcomings at work

Yes

“Showing vulnerability is about stepping into your authentic self. Sharing your truth and allowing yourself to be vulnerable takes strength and should be something that is respected and celebrated. Our industry is built on human connection and it is important that we continue to evolve. Ignoring emotions and not speaking our truth is unhealthy and can negatively impact our physical and mental health.

Sharing your truth and allowing yourself to be vulnerable takes strength and should be something that is respected and celebrated

When we fully embrace how we feel it becomes easier to express ourselves and celebrate our wins. It helps build resilience and is an essential part of selfdevelopment. At work being vulnerable could include imposter syndrome, comparing yourself to others or doubting your own ability. Often it only takes the courage to say these thoughts out loud in order for them to disappear. And that can only be a good thing - for ourselves, our colleagues, employers, employees, students and clients.

Communication and connectivity is at the heart of hairdressing. As the industry progresses and salons and brands look to support the mental health of their teams, I believe leading with vulnerability is a powerful place to start. I appreciate it is hard and is something I need to continuously work on myself but I also know that breaking through the barrier is worth the outcome.

Expressing vulnerability allows us to perform at our very best. We feel heard and we give back to others, allowing them to show their own vulnerability.”

HARRIET STOKES, FREELANCE STYLIST

No

“I understand that today it is essential that businesses create the right environment and have the correct policies in place to protect the mental health of our teams.

As a salon owner, business leader and employer of 68 other individuals, I believe there is a time and place to show vulnerability. I am learning how to be more emotionally transparent with my team but they depend on me. I’m their rock. Not the other way around. I hope that the level of authenticity, honesty and support we offer each other in Medusa means that everyone feels comfortable being vulnerable with me. But can it flow the other way? I don’t believe it can. My role is to provide stability and security. To be their rock, their confidant and the one they depend on.

My role is to provide stability and security. To be their rock, their confidant and the one they depend on

Traditionally, as a Scottish male, ‘vulnerability’ wasn’t even in my vocabulary. It was seen as a weakness. However, as I grow as a human and business owner I am beginning to understand the relevance of this characteristic. I have friends outside of work that I am vulnerable with and this allows me to better provide in my role with the team. Vulnerability is an important part of self-development but I believe there is a time and place for this. I am happy having open conversations on stage, in print and with my team and to share my experiences, but to show my vulnerability in work on a day-to-day basis is not something I’m comfortable with as a salon owner. However, you have to show signs of vulnerability to even learn about it so watch this space…”

COLIN MCANDREW, OWNER MEDUSA