You’re new to leadership and curious about what it takes to be successful. While there’s a lot that goes into leading effectively, we’re going to talk about authenticity’s role in leadership. So, take a break from scheduling a home repair at www.chimneyrepairdetroitmi.com and let’s get into 3 reasons authenticity is important in leadership.
Gives You Credibility
Authenticity undoubtedly gives you credibility as a leader. So often, leaders put on a mask to try and influence others. In a way, this isn’t leading – it’s manipulating. It eventually all comes to the surface, as leaders can’t wear a mask forever. This is why it’s so important that you don’t try and appear to be anyone other than who you are as a leader.
You don’t have to share all your deepest thoughts and feelings, but you do want to show people who you are. It’s a leader’s responsibility to reveal not just the positive attributes of themselves, but also their weaknesses. We are all human, and to be an effective leader – you want to lead by example. In turn, this gives you credibility as people know you are who you say you are.
You Offer Consistency
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon to see leaders say one thing but then never follow through with it. As we all know, actions speak louder than words. If your words don’t line up with your actions, chances are you aren’t an authentic leader. This will make those around you feel confused and not ever sure what they’ll get from you. This enables them to fully trust you. They don’t have to worry about you gaslighting them!
Authenticity means that you’re consistent. If you don’t know something, you tell people that. If you’ve made a mistake, you own up immediately. You know that you can’t know everything, and mistakes happen to us all. Instead of trying to hide that, you’re consistent with sharing your insights. You don’t hide behind fear, and your followers will know this.
Safe Space for Others
We all want to feel safe in the presence of others, and this is particularly true when it comes to leadership. As leaders, we want others to feel connected to us. We allow people to open up to us and invite them to share their thoughts and feelings in any way they would like to.
Being an authentic leader means that people will always feel safe to come to you. They know who you are, and it encourages them to feel safe about revealing who they are. Again, you lead by example. You show others that a mask isn’t necessary. Slowly, as others get more comfortable, people will start to remove their own masks around you.
The Rundown
There are many characteristics that are important for leaders to adopt, and authenticity is a big one. As an authentic leader, you will gain credibility, trust, and openness. These important qualities make people feel connected to you as a leader. In turn, there’s no doubt you will be successful in any leadership endeavor you take.
Photo by Dylan Gillis on Unsplash
