The meeting room grew silent. Everyone was waiting for Sasha to answer the Director’s question. Seconds stretched into minutes, as all eyes were glued on her, waiting for the answer…

That’s when she uttered the unthinkable: “I don’t know”. Is this how you respond to the Head Director of the Audit department? “I don’t know”? But that’s not the end of the story…

Then she followed up with the 12 words that would make all the difference: ” But I will find out and get back to you on this!” Which she did, exactly a day later, as she sent an email to the entire department with the detailed, thorough answer to said question. Not only did she gain major accolades as a result, but this was actually a turning point in Sasha’s career.

Since then, Sasha’s become quite the pro at saying “I don’t know” at work, while still maintaining the knowledgeable and competent professional reputation she’s always had…As a matter of fact, her ability to admit she doesn’t have all the answers, but that she’s willing to educate herself and others on the topic at hand, has turned her into one of the most sought-after experts in her field…

Have you ever been in Sasha’s shoes? Have you ever been in a situation where you were put on the spot at work and had no idea what to respond? Would you have as easily uttered these words in a crowded conference room, with all eyes pointed on you, expecting you to come up with the right answer? Or would you just have fumbled random words, put something together as fast as you could, trying to look confident even at the risk of it being totally inaccurate?

There are many times at work when we just don’t know the answer. And neither are we supposed to know everything…That would defeat the very purpose of learning and improving in the workplace.

And most times, it’s not because we haven’t looked into it, or aren’t interested in the subject matter, or even worse, aren’t smart, inquisitive or even professional enough. But simply because we don’t know what we don’t know…

 It’s in those times that we must remember: the true sign of leadership and professionalism is to remain honest, admit we don’t have all the answers, yet commit to finding out for our own good and the good of all.

When in doubt, it’s OK to say “I don’t know” at work:

1. Honestly admit you are currently unable to provide a comprehensive answer (or any answer for that matter).True leaders are not afraid to face their own limitations. The secret here is to be as refreshingly honest as possible. Don’t try to make up an answer or look more informed than you actually are. Remember, this is not a one-time shot, but one more step in establishing your professional reputation and reliability.
2. Commit to finding out the answer within a given deadline. While it’s ok to admit you don’t have the answer, what’s even more important is to Immediately make the open commitment to researching the answer. This not only goes to show that you are curious and inquisitive, but also that you can step up to the plate and volunteer to address impromptu requests.
3. Follow up and get back to everyone (yes, everyone) who was in attendance with the answer and supporting documentation to back it up. Now this is where you demonstrate excellence. Keep up with your prior commitment and do get back to everyone. Does this add to your already packed to-do list? Sure it does. But it also goes a long way to showing your dedication and initiative, and make you stand out in the midst of the “know-it-almost-all” crowd.

Are you comfortable saying “I don’t know” at work? What has been your experience so far?

To Your Success,

The Corporate Sis.​