Leadership authenticity requires amplification. Leaders are in the spotlight, their actions, comments and responses to almost everything are put through a filter. It's like living under a microscope.
A senior business leader friend of mine went through intense scrutiny a while back and every email, every report was put through a high level of analysis. He is a man of great character and so nothing was amiss, it was a witch-hunt.
The thing I most understood, after watching my mate from a distance, was how important it was for his actions, words and deeds to be truly his. Without that consistent character, that genuine authenticity, there would have been a terrible outcome. I don't think we will all have to go through a trial by fire like my friend, but we can learn from his example.
- Know who you are and what your strengths and weaknesses are.
- Be strong in your weaknesses. Own and be OK with what you are not good at.
- Make no promises you cannot keep.
- Be impeccable with your word.
- Encourage truth, trust and transparency.
This last point was taught to me by another friend and teacher David Penglase. He teaches many things, including leadership and ethics. His test is a simple one. If kids were watching you do something, would you be OK still doing it? As a dad this one strikes home.
As a leader, you need to amplify your authentic self. Turn up YOU when you turn up.
M@
Matt Church