Authentic leadership is more than just a management style - it's a powerful approach that can transform organizations and inspire teams to reach new heights. But what exactly does it mean to be an authentic leader, and how can you develop these qualities in yourself?
Let's explore the key attributes of authentic leadership and hear insights from experienced executives on how to cultivate authenticity in your own leadership journey.
Authentic leaders possess a unique set of qualities that set them apart. These include:
While all these attributes are important, two stand out as particularly crucial: self-awareness and empathy.
Self-awareness is the foundation of authentic leadership. It involves a deep understanding of your strengths, weaknesses, and values. Jennifer Warner, Chief Marketing Officer at CSI, shares her experience:
"I thought I was showing up one way, but I was showing up differently. That was such an eye-opening experience. Now that I know how I'm being perceived, I need to work on that to ensure I'm being authentic to myself and those I'm working with."
Empathy allows leaders to connect with their team members on a deeper level. Malle Pumapt, founder and CEO of Sore Community Networks, emphasizes its importance:
"When our leaders are developing and uncovering those not-so-pretty aspects of themselves, it makes for great leadership because there's connection. It also allows for empathy, putting themselves in other people's shoes."
Effective leaders don't adhere to gender stereotypes. Instead, they blend traditionally masculine and feminine traits to create a well-rounded leadership style.
Malle explains: "It's not necessarily about masculine or feminine at all. It's more about finding the right characteristics for that particular moment, time, scenario, and role you're playing."
Jennifer adds: "It's trying to figure out how I can be no-nonsense, deliver what I want, be that mission-driven leader, but also introduce that softer side. Explaining the 'why' really does help convey your message and get your team on board with the mission."
Authentic leadership isn't without its challenges. Here are some common hurdles and how to overcome them:
Jennifer shares her experience: "Having difficult conversations with team members who aren't meeting expectations was my biggest challenge. I realized that by not having those conversations, I was negatively impacting the entire team."
Malle reflects on her journey: "The biggest challenge for me was learning that I don't have to know everything and do it all on my own. It's okay to step aside and let other people shine and pour into the mission."
Authentic leaders foster strong employee engagement. Here are some strategies to consider:
Jennifer emphasizes the importance of engagement: "Just going up and having a conversation, seeing how they're doing, and making an effort goes a very long way. They're people just like everyone else, so treat them as such."
Executive coaching can play a crucial role in developing authentic leadership skills. Jennifer shares her experience:
"Working with an executive coach and going through a 360 review process uncovered a lot of things I didn't realize. It was a painful and difficult process to go through, but probably one of the most beneficial things for me."
This process can help leaders:
The pandemic has changed the way we work, presenting new challenges for authentic leaders. Jennifer notes:
"Now that we've gone through the pandemic and work in a hybrid model, I've seen that employees really appreciate the engagement, whether it's on a video call or in person. They appreciate the connection."
Authentic leaders in the post-pandemic workplace need to:
By embodying these principles of authentic leadership, you can create a more engaged, productive, and satisfied team. Remember, authenticity isn't about perfection - it's about being genuine, transparent, and committed to continuous growth and improvement.
Authentic leadership is a management style characterized by self-awareness, integrity, empathy, humility, discipline, mission-driven focus, and transparency. It involves being genuine, aligning actions with words, and fostering trust and engagement within teams.
You can develop authentic leadership skills by increasing self-awareness, practicing empathy, seeking feedback, aligning your actions with your words, showing vulnerability, and continuously working on personal and professional development. Executive coaching and 360-degree reviews can also be valuable tools.
Authentic leadership is crucial in today's workplace because it fosters trust, enhances employee engagement, promotes a positive work culture, and helps organizations navigate challenges more effectively. It's particularly important in the post-pandemic era, where maintaining team cohesion and employee well-being in hybrid work environments is vital.
Authentic leadership differs from other styles by emphasizing genuineness, self-awareness, and transparency. Unlike more directive or autocratic styles, authentic leadership focuses on building strong relationships, fostering trust, and inspiring others through personal example and integrity.
While some aspects of authentic leadership may come more naturally to certain individuals, it is a skill that can be learned and developed over time. Through self-reflection, feedback, practice, and professional development opportunities like executive coaching, leaders can cultivate and strengthen their authentic leadership abilities.