The Importance of Authentic Leadership in the New Era

The modernist corporation has long favored efficiency over contribution, and as a result, many employees feel like they are merely a number. This recent era of management has placed a greater emphasis on fitting in and developing a normative culture rather than on belonging and community.

Authentic leadership is the key to sweeping and sustainable innovation in the new era of work. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated this problem, as many professionals feel the effects of limited development opportunities. By adopting an authentic approach to leading others, we can help everyone reach their full potential.

What is Authentic Leadership?

Authentic leadership is often described as "a style of leadership that emphasizes building relationships of trust, empathy, and respect between leaders and followers." It is based on the premise that leaders are most effective when they are genuine and transparent with their followers. Furthermore, authentic leaders must be committed to helping others reach their full potential.

In a manufacturing situation, for example, authentic leadership might involve creating a culture of safety where employees feel empowered to speak up about concerns and where leaders are transparent about communicating expectations and addressing issues. It could also involve engaging employees in decision-making processes and being open to input and feedback from all levels of the organization. Ultimately, authentic leadership in a manufacturing setting could help to create a more positive and productive work environment.

In addition to the above, authentic leadership could create opportunities for employees to learn new skills and grow within their roles. This could include training on new equipment or processes, offering mentorship programs, and encouraging employees to take on new challenges. By investing in the development of their employees, employers can create a more knowledgeable and adaptable workforce, ultimately leading to increased productivity and innovation.

Why is Authentic Leadership Important?

The recent era of management has favored efficiency over contribution, and its days are numbered. The modernist corporation hid layoffs behind a facade of "treating people well" and paid lip service to inclusion. Belonging and community were replaced by fitting-in and normative cultures. The pandemic changed the location of work for many professionals and placed whatever limited development opportunities at risk for everyone, including aspiring leaders. It's odd that the new order manager won't need new tools but will need to build the intelligence and muscle to care for others and to act in meaningful ways. Sweeping and sustainable innovation is possible by adopting an authentic approach to leading others. Our greatest achievements are helping others to bring their best.

When we're at our authentic best, we can access a level of personal power that allows us to be present and focused on the moment. We can also draw on our values, beliefs, and experiences to make decisions that align with who we are and what we stand for. This inner alignment gives us the strength and confidence to lead others effectively.

How Can We Adopt an Authentic Approach?

So how can you develop an authentic leadership style? Here are five key tips:

1. Know yourself. The first step is to know who you are as a person. What are your values? What motivates you? What do you stand for? When you have a clear sense of your own identity, it will be easier for you to be authentic in your leadership.
2. Be transparent. Authentic leaders are open and honest with their team. They don't try to hide their flaws or shortcomings; instead, they use them as opportunities to connect with others.
3. Be consistent. Authentic leaders are consistent in their words and actions. They don't say one thing and then do another; they walk their talk.
4. Be genuine in your relationships. The relationships that authentic leaders have with their team members are built on trust and mutual respect. They listen more than they talk and show genuine interest in the lives of their team members.
5. Lead with purpose. Authentic leaders know why they are doing what they are doing. They have a clear vision for their team and themselves and act with intentionality daily.

By following these approaches, we can create a more inclusive environment where everyone feels like they belong. Furthermore, we can help employees reach their full potential to make lasting contributions to an organization.

Conclusion

For the new order corporation to thrive, it must adopt an authentic approach to leadership. There's no one right way to be an authentic leader. The important thing is that you stay true to yourself and your values and lead intentionally. Doing so will create a more inclusive environment where everyone feels like they belong, and you'll help your employees reach their full potential. Now is the time for authentic leaders to step up and create lasting change within our organizations.

When leaders are authentic, they're better equipped to handle difficult conversations and navigate change. Authentic leadership also provides emotional benefits. You'll be part of a movement that is helping to redefine the workplace. And you'll have the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives. If you're looking for a way to authentic leadership, consider the many benefits it can provide. You may be surprised at just how far it can take you.