In the whirlwind of technological advancements, scientific breakthroughs, and the constant influx of data, one trait stands out as a beacon of true leadership: intellectual humility. In a world where change is the only constant, the ability to acknowledge the limits of one’s knowledge is not a weakness, but a profound strength.

As a strategist navigating the dynamic Philippine business landscape, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of humility. The rapid evolution of our industries demands a mindset that is open to learning, adapting, and growing. There is simply no room for the “know-it-all” mentality.

Recently, I interviewed a promising fresh graduate from a prestigious university. Their academic achievements were remarkable, a testament to their dedication and intelligence. However, during our conversation, a subtle yet unmistakable air of intellectual arrogance permeated in their responses. They spoke with unwavering certainty about complex topics like machine learning, research methodologies, and data analytics, projecting an image of someone who had already mastered these fields.

Moreover, there was an unspoken expectation that their presence alone was a privilege for our company. While intelligence is undoubtedly valuable, it is the willingness to learn and grow that truly sets individuals apart. In a Filipino workplace, humility is not just a professional virtue; I believe it is a cultural imperative.

I ultimately decided not to extend an offer to this candidate. It was not a reflection of their intelligence, but rather a recognition that their mindset was misaligned with our team’s ethos. We put an emphasis and priority on continuous learning, collaborative problem-solving, and a genuine curiosity about the changing, evolving world around us. Our organizational values center on humility and generosity, traits that are essential for fostering a positive and productive work environment.

In the fast-paced, ever-evolving modern workplace, the ability to say “I do not know” is not a sign of incompetence, but a mark of wisdom. It opens the door to new perspectives, innovative solutions, and collaborative breakthroughs. When we pretend to know everything, we stagnate. We become rigid, resistant to change, and ultimately, irrelevant.

As leaders, it is our responsibility to cultivate a workplace where intellectual humility is valued and celebrated. We must create an environment where employees feel safe to ask questions, admit their limitations, and embrace the journey of continuous learning.

Let’s champion the power of “I don’t know”. We need to embrace the humility that allows us to grow, adapt, and thrive in a world of constant change. By doing so, we not only empower our teams, but we also contribute to the advancement of our businesses and the growth of our nation.

Let us remember that genuine wisdom lies not in claiming to know everything, but in recognizing the vastness of what we still have to learn. Sources and related content