Business leadership techniques have evolved in the last few years. Leadership advisers are now emphasizing the importance of authenticity. This personal development strategy is, according to experts, not only good for the individual’s self-esteem but crucial to becoming an effective leader. New age skeptics may scoff at the idea but there are actually several business studies supporting the idea that successful entrepreneurs -- and especially those that describe themselves as great leaders -- all share the quality of being authentic.
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| Image Souce: LinkedIn.com |
However, that does beg the question of what this term really means. “What if I am being myself but I am still not achieving results, what then?” is a question most people have. There is also the hidden assumption that being “authentic” -- just in case one wasn’t -- would require the entrepreneur to be someone they are not.
It is important to address this and explain the nuances that leadership mentors mean when they call for authenticity. To be sure, to be authentic is to be “true to one’s self”; but this is not the same as being spontaneous. Businesspeople assume that “being authentic” means venting out or expressing whatever they feel at a particular moment. After all, what was felt at that moment was true and authentic. As one can imagine, this is a dangerous type of thinking to have as this would most likely lead the person in trouble more often than not.
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| Image Source: entrepreneur.com |
Instead, authenticity describes core values that should be aligned with the business’ own long-term goals. The best business owners are those whose personal beliefs are congruent with the company’s goals. Note that all business practices and strategies are a reflection of the company’s personality and ultimately the owner’s as well. It is therefore important that the owner maintains authenticity by sticking to their beliefs. The entrepreneur would also do well to consider the direct monetary impact to authenticity: clients often prefer companies that remain true to their core beliefs.
Dougherty Marketing teaches young business leaders how to succeed. For more information, like this Facebook page.
