Authenticity in Leadership: Leading with Your Whole Self
During my football career, I remember working with a couple of outstanding coaches who went on to become managers. I found it interesting that they changed their personalities to fit their roles. Their strength and authenticity were altered by their idea of what a manager should be.
For one, the new ‘manager’ job drove him crazy, and he didn’t last long. The other had a degree of success, but I always felt the superb ‘coach’ I knew never fully came across in his new guise.
This brings me to genuine authenticity—leading with your whole self is desirable in leadership and essential for building trust, fostering collaboration, and driving sustainable success.
Authenticity in leadership isn’t a trend; it’s a fundamental requirement for navigating the challenges of the modern workplace and inspiring genuine engagement from those you lead.
Authentic leadership transcends the superficial. It’s not about mimicking successful leaders or adhering to rigid leadership models. Instead, it’s about embracing your unique strengths, acknowledging your weaknesses, and leading with integrity and self-awareness.
Authentic leaders are genuine and transparent in their actions and words. They operate from a place of genuine care and concern for their team members, fostering a culture of trust and psychological safety.
I had a few authentic leaders in my football career, but one sticks out—Sir Bobby Robson. He wasn’t perfect, but he never tried to be. He would get names mixed up and accidentally have the opposition with 14 players on a tactics board, among other minor clangers. However, every one of the best players in England would run through a brick wall for him. Time and time again. He led with integrity, embraced vulnerability, and fostered genuine connections.
Authentic leadership is not a destination; it’s a journey of ongoing self-discovery and development. Always strive to improve.
The rewards of authentic leadership are far-reaching. They impact not only your team but also the broader organisational culture and, ultimately, the success of your endeavours. It requires courage, self-awareness, and a commitment to continuous growth.
This type of leadership isn’t about perfection; it’s about self-acceptance and a willingness to be vulnerable. So, be yourself, be authentic!
#Authenticity #Leadership #Teamwork