What do you do when you mess up in front of your team or a candidate? In this short video from The Awkward Leader series, I share one of my most awkward leadership moments, and what it taught me about ego, presence, and people-first leadership. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about showing up, even after you’ve stumbled.

VIDEO

People Leadership During Awkward Moments

As a leader, have you ever made an honest but awkward mistake?
Now how you handle that mistake — up here (points to head) — will determine a lot about how good of a people leader you are.

I once arrived at a hiring meeting about five minutes late. Two other managers and the candidate were already there. I did what I always do — I introduced myself and stretched out my right hand.

There was a long, awkward pause when I realized the candidate didn’t have a right arm.

She graciously shook my hand with her left, and we started the interview.

So here’s where my reaction became crucial. Do I spend the next half hour carefully listening to the candidate — or do I spend that time in my head, ruminating about how stupid I just looked?

Guess what? I did the ruminating.

And it was only after the interview that I realized: I’d made that interaction about me.

When you make an embarrassing mistake as a leader, you’ve got to keep your head and keep serving your team.

I know it’s hard to control your thoughts. But just by being aware of what you’re doing, you can keep at least some of your attention on the present, and be the leader your team needs in the moment.

More People Leadership Tips

Want more real-world leadership lessons from someone who’s lived them? Explore more awkward leadership moments https://jasonreid.ca/blog — or book Jason to speak at your next leadership event.