What is authentic leadership?
Authentic leadership is a much-used term but what do people mean by it? What does authentic leadership actually look like? It’s often quoted as meaning transparency and honesty, of course. But what else?
In my view it involves applying emotional intelligence. It is about having the courage to take the tough decisions but at the same time demonstrating empathy and compassion. It is about having integrity, or in other words, if we say it we mean it.
Integrity is a dimension of authentic leadership and not it in itself. To be authentic requires us to be self-aware enough to empathise with our followers and stakeholders. An authentic leader has the ability to listen, reflect and understand the position, concerns and dreams of our followers in order to get a sense of teamship that will deliver our vision and purpose. It’s a bit like a servant leadership principle where you clear the way so that the people you are leading can succeed. But, by the same token you share the kudos of the success with them.
The other critical dimension to authentic leadership is to have an agreed values set that underpin your leadership approach – and don’t compromise on it. Strategy and direction may change, but the values set must never be compromised. It’s ‘the way we do things around here’.
Transparency is essential where possible, and when not possible honesty as to why not is key. Do not hide behind weak excuses or platitudes but say why the information cannot be shared.
What do you think?