Early in my career, I thought being a leader meant having all the answers. I believed credibility came from confidence, and confidence meant always knowing what to do.

But over the years—leading teams, working with clients, and navigating complex technology projects—I’ve learned that one of the most powerful things a leader can say is:

“I don’t know.”

It’s not a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of wisdom, humility, and strength. Here’s why embracing the unknown can make you a better leader, a stronger problem solver, and a more respected professional.

1. It Builds Trust and Authenticity

When leaders pretend to know everything, people see through it. Clients and colleagues appreciate honesty, and when you admit what you don’t know, you gain credibility. You show you’re not just making things up—you’re committed to finding the right answer.

2. It Creates Space for Innovation

If you assume you already have all the answers, you miss opportunities to explore better solutions. Admitting uncertainty opens the door for collaboration, diverse perspectives, and new ideas that might never have surfaced otherwise.

3. It Encourages Continuous Learning

The tech industry moves fast. The best leaders aren’t the ones who know everything—they’re the ones who keep learning. Saying “I don’t know, but I’ll find out” fosters a culture of curiosity and lifelong learning.

4. It Empowers Your Team

Great leadership isn’t about being the smartest person in the room—it’s about bringing out the best in others. When you acknowledge gaps in your knowledge, you create opportunities for your team to step up, contribute, and grow.

5. It Helps You Make Better Decisions

Rather than making snap judgments or relying on outdated knowledge, admitting uncertainty allows you to take a step back, gather the right information, and make well-informed decisions.

How to Say “I Don’t Know” With Confidence

If admitting uncertainty feels uncomfortable, try these approaches:

✅ “That’s a great question—I’d love to dig into it and get back to you.”

✅ “I don’t have the full answer, but let’s explore it together.”

✅ “I haven’t come across that before, but I know where to find the right information.”

Leaders don’t need to have all the answers. They need to have the right mindset: curiosity, adaptability, and the courage to say, “I don’t know—but I’ll find out.”

Have you ever had a moment where admitting you didn’t know something led to a breakthrough? Let’s talk in the comments!