How do some leaders demonstrate a spirit of openness and genuineness, while others hide behind their positions, never allowing the people they lead to really know them? Certainly, you need to identify those times when discretion is appropriate. But more times than not, it is your willingness to show your weaknesses to others, rather than your strengths, that can increase trust and respect with your team. And with a solid foundation of trust and respect - you and your team can achieve far more than you can imagine. Here are three ways you can lead more authentically:
Admit When You Are Wrong
None of us enjoys being wrong. And yet as certain death and taxes - there will be times when we will make a bad decision, say the wrong thing, or act in a way that can hurt a team member. Your choice is clear- will you admit you are wrong? (And therefore, human), or will you try to cover up the mistake, blame others, or shirk your responsibility. You will see a shift in your team's ability to trust you and others, when you lead the way by saying, "I blew it." or "I'm sorry."
Live in Congruence
The Latin word for authentic carries the meaning of "One who does things himself." Other definitions include..."you say what you claim to be.. There is no falsehood or misrepresentation." As an authentic leader, your behaviors match your words. What you say is matched by what you do. As much as possible, your promises are kept. This also means that your body language, words, face, and voice are also all lined up - saying the same thing. At the next staff meeting, be mindful of your "whole self" as you communicate to your team. If there are any contradictions, most people will believe what they see - not what they hear.
Stand for Truth
Leading authentically ultimately means that you are a leader who can be trusted. Some examples of standing for truth include - proactively quenching negative gossip, communicating positively about others (including upper management) and standing up when there are issues related to unethical behavior.
Leading authentically can be your best weapon against the tides of change, uncertainty, increased workload, and lower morale. As an authentic leader, you will earn a reputation as a leader who can be trusted. And this can go a long way to becoming the "real deal" with your team.
Boundlessly yours,
Jan