Authentic leadership is a modern approach to leadership that emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and leading with integrity, transparency, and empathy. This leadership style has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly in response to corporate scandals and a growing demand for ethical leadership in business. But what exactly is authentic leadership, and how can one become an authentic leader?
Authentic leadership is characterized by a leader's genuine and transparent behavior, grounded in their core values and beliefs. According to Bill George, a former CEO of Medtronic and a prominent advocate of authentic leadership, authentic leaders are "people of the highest integrity, committed to building enduring organizations" and "committed to stewardship of their assets and to making a difference in the lives of the people they serve". This leadership style is not about adopting a specific set of behaviors but rather about being true to oneself and leading from a place of authenticity.
Key Characteristics of Authentic Leaders
Authentic leaders possess several key characteristics that set them apart from other leadership styles. These include:
Self-awareness: Authentic leaders have a deep understanding of their strengths, weaknesses, values, and beliefs. They are aware of how their actions impact others and continuously seek to improve themselves.
Relational transparency: They are open and honest in their interactions with others, promoting trust and fostering genuine relationships.
Balanced processing: Authentic leaders objectively analyze information and consider different perspectives before making decisions.
Internalized moral perspective: Their actions and decisions are guided by their internal moral standards rather than external pressures.
How to Become an Authentic Leader
Becoming an authentic leader involves a continuous journey of self-discovery, self-improvement, and genuine connection with others. Here are some steps to help you develop authentic leadership:
1. Develop Self-Awareness
Self-awareness is the foundation of authentic leadership. Take time to reflect on your values, beliefs, strengths, and weaknesses. Engage in introspection and seek feedback from others to gain a better understanding of how you are perceived. As William Arruda notes, "Authentic leaders are deeply aware of how they think and behave and are perceived by others".
2. Lead with Integrity
Integrity is a cornerstone of authentic leadership. It involves being honest, transparent, and consistent in your actions. Bill George emphasizes that "integrity is the one value that is required in every authentic leader". This means not only avoiding dishonesty but also being truthful, even when it is difficult.
3. Build Genuine Relationships
Authentic leaders prioritize building meaningful relationships with their team members. Show genuine care and concern for their well-being, and invest time in getting to know them personally. This fosters trust and loyalty, which are essential for effective leadership. As Arruda highlights, "Establishing connected relationships is another dimension of authentic leadership".
4. Communicate Effectively
Effective communication is crucial for authentic leadership. Be open and transparent in your communication, and actively listen to your team members. Encourage open dialogue and create an environment where everyone feels heard and valued. According to Arruda, "leaders need to ensure that employees have a voice and opportunity to share their views".
5. Stay True to Your Values
Authentic leaders are guided by their core values, even in challenging situations. It is important to know your values and stick to them, particularly when faced with difficult decisions. George argues that the best way to know your values is to have them tested, as this prepares you for when they are tested in big ways.
Benefits of Authentic Leadership
Authentic leadership has numerous benefits for both leaders and their organizations. Research has shown that authentic leadership can lead to higher levels of employee engagement, job satisfaction, and overall organizational performance. For example, a report by PwC found that 79% of leaders surveyed believe that "purpose is central to business success". Additionally, Deloitte's research suggests that mission-driven companies have 40% higher levels of retention.
Authentic leadership is about being true to yourself and leading with integrity, transparency, and empathy. By developing self-awareness, leading with integrity, building genuine relationships, communicating effectively, and staying true to your values, you can become an authentic leader. This leadership style not only benefits individual leaders but also contributes to a positive and thriving work environment.
