Saying “I don’t know” to a client was terrifying.
By: A Staff Writer
Updated on: Jul 29, 2024
The Knowledge Gap: CluelessConsultant, Seattle, WA
Saying “I don’t know” to a client was terrifying.
Hi, I’m CluelessConsultant from Seattle, WA. As a consultant, I felt immense pressure to have all the answers for my clients. The fear of admitting I didn’t know something kept me up at night.
How I Embraced “I Don’t Know”:
- Redefined expertise: I realized that expertise isn’t about knowing everything but about knowing how to find the answers.
- Set expectations: I communicated to clients upfront that I’d research any questions I didn’t have immediate answers to.
- Followed through: I always made sure to find the information and get back to the client promptly.
- Used it as a learning opportunity: I viewed each “I don’t know” as a chance to expand my knowledge and improve my skills.
- Showed vulnerability: I allowed myself to be human and imperfect, which strengthened my relationships with clients.
It’s okay not to know everything. In fact, admitting you don’t know can actually build trust and credibility with clients. By embracing “I don’t know” as a learning opportunity, you can demonstrate your commitment to continuous improvement and deliver even better results.