Leaders should be convinced of their beliefs and be certain of the facts. At the same time they should always keep a mental space for doubt for two reasons. First, because even apparent truths may be less certain than they seem. Second, because letting in a little doubt provides more space for their counterparts to speak their own truths.
It is never easy to speak up to a business leader for someone lower in the pecking order. If the business leader presents himself with a few cracks in his shell, he will become more accessible; the big ego wil become more human.
As a leader, start your sentences with ‘I assume’ or ‘I can imagine’. The concrete of your image will become a little more fluid. You will see that your conversation partners will open up and you will probably hear more than before.