What is Authentic Leadership?
💬 “A real leader knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” 💬
Authentic leadership is about being true to yourself and leading with integrity. It means being honest about your strengths and weaknesses and using them to inspire and guide others. In male-dominated environments, where bravado can often overshadow authenticity, showing genuine leadership can make a significant impact.
🔍 Lead by example – Demonstrate the values and behaviors you want to see in your team. Authentic leaders walk the talk and inspire others through their actions.
👂 Be transparent – Open communication builds trust. Share your thoughts, feelings, and decisions openly with your team, and encourage them to do the same.
🤝 Embrace vulnerability – Authentic leaders aren’t afraid to show their human side. Admitting when you don’t have all the answers or when you’ve made a mistake fosters a culture of trust and continuous learning.
🔑 Foster inclusivity – Create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Authentic leadership thrives in diverse teams where different perspectives are respected and integrated.
Feeling unsure about your leadership style? That’s okay. Authentic leadership is a journey, not a destination.
Things to reflect on…
❓What does authentic leadership look like to you?
❓How can you practice authenticity in your daily interactions?
❓What impact does authentic leadership have on your team?
We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences 👇
Further Reading
For more on authentic leadership, check out this insightful article: The Real Truth About Authentic Leadership