Humility can lead to a more harmonious workplace. It can break down walls, help build trust and create deeper connections between employees. In today’s digital world, it’s easier than ever to connect with people. However, it’s another story when it comes to making meaningful connections. That’s where humility can come into play.

Educator, coach and author, McKinlee Covey, says humility is key to building authentic connections in an ever-changing world. People aren’t drawn to the polished veneer of perfection — they want to connect with what’s real.

You can learn to be more real by honing your humility practice. We’re highlighting three tips from Covey on how to do this in this issue of PromoPro Daily.

1. Strengthen your self-awareness. Like other leadership traits, you need to know yourself if you want to grow your humility. Think through your beliefs and values. Are there activities or pursuits that don’t align with what matters most to you? When you give those up, you can begin to engage in more meaningful work. This, in turn, allows you to be more real with people because you’re not busy trying to present an overly poised version of yourself. Covey says ultimately you can’t be humble if you aren’t willing to be honest with yourself first.

2. Keep your ego in check. Most people overestimate their own strengths and underestimate their own weaknesses, Covey says. They also tend to judge others more harshly than they do themselves. This human tendency points to an important way to grow your humility: Learn to accept that you might be wrong. You don’t need to tamp down your self-confidence or second-guess yourself. But you should humbly acknowledge you might not know all the answers and you might not be right all the time.

3. Listen and learn. Listening is a critical skill, whether you work in leadership, sales or any other role. While there are many ways to improve and practice your listening skills, Covey says humility is foundational to becoming a better listener. You need to genuinely want to hear what the other person is saying in order to become a great listener.

Humility is a powerful tool for being a more authentic leader and colleague. Instead of trying to always project strength and confidence, allow yourself to be real. It will take a concerted effort, but you’ll be able to connect with people in more meaningful and authentic ways.

Compiled by Audrey Sellers

Source: McKinlee Covey is an educator, coach and co-author with Stephen M.R. Covey of the bestseller, Trust & Inspire.