Three Magic Words Leaders Should Say to Their People

"I don't know"

Simple, right?

One of your direct reports asks what you think they should do, and you say, “I don’t know.”

Notice how comfortable or uncomfortable that feels as you read it.

Over the years, I’ve worked with thousands of talented leaders. Very few are genuinely comfortable not having the answer and admitting it to their people.

Intellectually, we know our role as senior leaders isn’t to have all the answers. But years of conditioning in middle management train us to behave as if it is.

"I don't know" is a strength, not a weakness

The real kicker is that when we try to have all the answers, or act as if we do, we create an unnecessary dependence.

When we can say, “I don’t know” or even better, “I don’t know, let’s work it out together,” it creates space for empowerment, collaboration and coaching.

Your people see a leader who is secure enough to learn with them, rather than being performative.

"I don't know." A small thing that makes a big difference, with the right people at the right time

Of course, this doesn’t mean answering every question with “I don’t know.”

In front of the board or investors, it's clearly vital that you demonstrate you are credible and knowledgeable.

But with your people, when the moment is right, choosing not to be the all-knowing oracle can be one of the most empowering things you do.

Our programmes supporting senior leaders stepping into executive roles have been refreshed for 2026.

If you want to strengthen your Exec Ready pipeline, let’s talk. Email me at richard@twentyoneleadership.com.