If an administrator is able to admit failures, mistakes, or lack of knowledge, he or she usually:

• A. has a lack of authority with subordinates
• B. has a sense of security in his own competence
• C. is incompetent on the job
• D. has been pushed ahead too fast

Answer: (B)

Being able to admit failures shows a leader who is secure in their own competence. When someone trusts their skills and knows they can handle the consequences, they don’t fear acknowledging mistakes or gaps in knowledge. This humility signals that errors will be addressed constructively, which helps the team learn and improve and builds trust and accountability.

The other ideas don’t fit as well because admitting mistakes isn’t a sign of lacking authority or incompetence. A confident leader can own up to errors and still guide the group effectively, whereas being pushed ahead too fast reflects external pressure rather than inner assurance.