Being an Authentic Leader doesn't mean being perfect. It means being true to yourself and your values, even when it's difficult.
Artiklen er skrevet af Anne Hørsted / 13. april 2023
Being an Authentic Leader: Lessons from Research and Real-world Cases
As a leader, it’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to be someone you’re not. We see other successful leaders and think we need to emulate their style, adopt their mannerisms, and conform to their expectations. But the truth is that authentic leadership – being true to yourself and your values – is what sets great leaders apart from the rest.
In this article, I’ll share insights from research and real-world cases to hopefully inspire you to see the value of becoming a more authentic leader. By understanding the benefits of authenticity, recognizing the common obstacles to authenticity, and learning strategies for overcoming those obstacles, you can become a more effective and fulfilled leader.
Case Study 1: Patagonia
As a leader, it’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to be someone you’re not. We see other successful leaders and think we need to emulate their style, adopt their mannerisms, and conform to their expectations. But the truth is that authentic leadership – being true to yourself and your values – is what sets great leaders apart from the rest.
In this article, I’ll share insights from research and real-world cases to hopefully inspire you to see the value of becoming a more authentic leader. By understanding the benefits of authenticity, recognizing the common obstacles to authenticity, and learning strategies for overcoming those obstacles, you can become a more effective and fulfilled leader.
The Benefits of Authentic Leadership
Authentic leadership has been shown to have a range of benefits for both leaders and their organizations. Research has found that authentic leaders are more trusted, respected, and admired by their followers. They are also more likely to inspire their followers to perform at their best and to promote positive organizational outcomes such as employee engagement and job satisfaction.
Real-world cases provide further evidence of the power of authentic leadership.
Case Study 2: Howard Schultz, Starbucks
Consider the case of Howard Schultz, the former CEO of Starbucks. Schultz was known for his authenticity and his commitment to his values. He prioritized ethical sourcing and fair treatment of employees, even when it meant making difficult decisions that went against the conventional wisdom of his industry at that time. Under his leadership, Starbucks implemented a variety of progressive policies, including offering health benefits to all employees, sourcing fair trade coffee, and promoting diversity and inclusion. By prioritizing the needs of employees, customers, and the wider community, Schultz helped to build a company that is not only profitable, but also widely respected for its positive impact on society.
Obstacles to Authenticity
Despite the benefits of authenticity, many leaders struggle to be true to themselves. One common obstacle is the pressure to conform to others’ expectations. Leaders may feel that they need to adopt a certain leadership style or set of behaviors in order to fit in with their peers or to meet the expectations of their superiors. This can cause them to suppress their true selves and to act in ways that are not authentic.
Another obstacle is fear. Leaders may fear that if they show their true selves, they will be judged or rejected by others. They may worry that they will lose credibility or respect if they reveal their vulnerabilities or their true beliefs. This fear can cause them to hide behind a facade and to avoid showing their true selves.
Overcoming Obstacles to Authenticity
To overcome these obstacles and become a more authentic leader, there are several strategies you can try:
- Develop self-awareness. Start by reflecting on your values, beliefs, and motivations. What are the things that matter most to you? What are your strengths and weaknesses? By understanding yourself better, you can be more intentional about aligning your behavior with your true self.
- Cultivate a growth mindset. Adopting a growth mindset – the belief that you can develop your abilities through effort and learning – can help you overcome the fear of failure and embrace new challenges. When you view your mistakes and setbacks as opportunities for growth, you’re more likely to take risks and to be true to yourself.
- Find a mentor. A mentor can provide guidance and support as you navigate the challenges of leadership. Look for someone who embodies the qualities you admire and who can help you stay true to yourself.
- Embrace vulnerability. Showing vulnerability can be scary, but it can also be a powerful way to connect with others and to build trust. Share your struggles and your fears with your team, and be open to feedback and criticism. By being vulnerable, you can create a culture of openness and authenticity.
Case Study 3: Sara Blakely, Spanx
Sara Blakely is the founder of Spanx, a company that specializes in shapewear and leggings. Blakely’s authentic leadership style emphasizes innovation, persistence, and a commitment to empowering women. She founded Spanx with the goal of helping women feel confident and comfortable in their own skin, and has since become one of the most successful female entrepreneurs in the world. Blakely is known for her willingness to take risks, her focus on customer feedback, and her dedication to giving back through philanthropic initiatives.
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In conclusion, authentic leadership is a powerful tool for creating a positive and productive work environment. By leading with integrity, transparency, and self-awareness, you can build trust and loyalty among your team, and inspire them to achieve their full potential.
But authentic leadership isn’t just about being true to yourself; it’s also about being responsive to the needs of your team and your organization. By cultivating empathy and emotional intelligence, you can connect with your team on a deeper level, and create a culture of inclusivity and belonging.
To succeed as an authentic leader, you must be willing to learn, grow, and adapt to changing circumstances. By staying open to feedback, seeking out new perspectives, and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, you can continue to refine your leadership skills and make a lasting impact on your team and your organization.
Case Study 4: Patrice Banks, Girls Auto Clinic
Patrice Banks is the founder of Girls Auto Clinic, a company that provides automotive repair services and education for women. Banks’s authentic leadership style emphasizes inclusivity, empowerment, and a commitment to social change. She founded Girls Auto Clinic with the goal of helping women feel more confident and knowledgeable about car maintenance, and has since become a leading advocate for diversity and inclusion in the automotive industry. Banks is known for her ability to connect with customers and employees on a personal level, and for her dedication to creating a more equitable and sustainable world.
By incorporating your values and beliefs into your leadership style, creating a culture of inclusivity and belonging, and prioritizing social responsibility, you can become a more authentic leader.
Remember, being authentic doesn’t mean being perfect. It means being true to yourself and your values, even when it’s difficult. As Warren Bennis, a pioneer of leadership studies, once said, “Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality.” By being authentic, you can inspire others to join you in making that vision a reality.