Leading through uncertainty: It's ok to say "I don't know"

For people in leadership positions, "I don't know" are difficult words to say. But as long as they’re not the last words, they can help you lead through uncertainty. 

It can be difficult to lead when you don't know what's ahead. (Photo by Katja Anokhina on Unsplash)

There is a misconception that leaders have all the answers. Others look to their leadership to set strategy, navigate difficulties, and make consequential decisions. Employees are comforted by the idea that the leaders have more information than they do, and that well-informed choices are being made. And that may be true when life is ticking along predictably. 

That, however, is not the world in which we find ourselves in mid 2025. There is tremendous uncertainty in global security and geopolitics, in the economy, and in our daily lives. In the workplace, this may show up as reduced budgets, limited investment, or the feared “reduction in force”. Employees are anxious about their jobs and their future, and are looking for reassurance from leadership.

It’s a difficult time to say “I don’t know”, even though so much in this moment is unknown, and unknowable. It is understandable to want to assure worried employees. But to pretend to have answers just to assuage collective anxiety doesn’t help anyone in the long run. Sometimes “I don’t know” is the most honest answer a leader can provide. 

The important thing is that it is not the last answer. What could emerge if those dreaded words are followed by a statement of openness and curiosity? 

I don’t know…but I’ll always share the information I do have.

I don’t know…and I’m interested to hear what you think.

I don’t know…so tell me what would help you feel more secure.

I don’t know…and I’m curious what opportunities might arise from this uncertainty.

Do you find it hard to admit you don’t know? How could using the statements above help you bring a different perspective to your leadership in this moment?

If you’re struggling with leading through uncertainty, let’s talk about how coaching can help.