Authentic or Fake? Understanding the New Rules of Executive Presence

• September 26, 2024
• Margot
• no comments

Recently, we held a workshop in Shanghai about the new rules of executive presence. During this workshop, we shared research from Harvard Business Review that shows how leadership has changed over the last ten years. One important trait that stood out is authenticity. Participants asked me how to tell the difference between being authentic and putting on a fake act. This sparked a lot of discussions, and I want to explore this topic further here.

What Does Authenticity Mean in Leadership?

Authenticity in leadership is about being true to yourself and aligning your actions with your personal values. Leaders who embody authenticity create an atmosphere of trust and openness, which is vital for fostering teamwork and collaboration. Research shows that authentic leaders are perceived as more relatable and trustworthy, strengthening their connection with team members.

A memorable example of authentic leadership comes from Rishi, my former manager at X (formerly known as Twitter). He exemplified authentic leadership through his strong mission and trust in his team. Throughout our time together, he often shared his views and feelings regarding various situations, yet he never displayed emotional weakness or an ill manner in front of us. This balance is essential in leadership; expressing emotions is a fundamental part of being human, but it doesn’t have to manifest in a way that compromises professionalism.

For instance, during a conference in China, the atmosphere was unexpectedly challenging. Rishi candidly shared his nerves and uncertainty about the audience with me. This moment of vulnerability made him more relatable and reinforced our connection as teammates. He was not breaking down or losing composure; rather, he was acknowledging his feelings in a way that invited understanding and support.

When he took the stage, he delivered an outstanding speech, as usual, but it was his honesty beforehand that resonated with me. By expressing his emotions without becoming overly emotional, he demonstrated how leaders can be both relatable and composed.

This balance of vulnerability and professionalism not only enhances trust among team members but also encourages others to show their authentic selves. Ultimately, it creates a more cohesive and engaged team dynamic, reminding us that being human and expressing emotions is what connects us all.

Is Authenticity Really Authentic? Or Just Fake?

Authenticity can be incredibly beneficial, but many leaders struggle to understand it. The worry about coming off as fake can be stressful, making them wonder if their efforts are real or just for show. True authenticity comes from knowing yourself and understanding your values, rather than trying to fit into a mold of what a leader is expected to be.

To really see if a leader is authentic, we need to look at how they communicate. It’s important that their words match their actions.

For example, imagine a CEO who gives great speeches about the importance of employee well-being but then encourages a culture where everyone works all the time. The person might seem confident, but if the behavior doesn’t match the words, team members will likely feel a disconnect.

Also, communication is about more than just what you say. In fact, non-verbal cues account for about 93% of communication, which means people can often sense when someone is being fake. Nonverbal signals, like body language and facial expressions, can reveal if a leader is sincere or not. When a leader tries to fake authenticity, their team usually picks up on the mixed signals, leading to doubt and mistrust.

For instance, a leader might feel like they need to share a personal story during a meeting to connect with the team. If that story feels forced or doesn’t relate to their real experiences, it can come off as inauthentic. Authenticity shines through when leaders share their stories naturally, helping to build stronger connections with their team.

How Can You Develop Authenticity as a Leader?

To cultivate authenticity in your leadership style, here are some practical tips that can help you on this journey:

1. Self-Reflection: Take time to think about your values and what truly matters to you. Understanding yourself is the first step toward being authentic.
2. Be Honest: Share your true thoughts and feelings with your team. Honesty builds trust and shows that you are genuine.
3. Share Your Stories: Use personal experiences to illustrate your points. This helps others connect with you on a deeper level.
4. Encourage Openness: Create an environment where your team feels comfortable sharing their ideas and experiences.
5. Seek Feedback: Ask your team for their thoughts on your leadership style. This feedback can help you understand how others perceive you.
6. Stay True to Your Values: Make decisions that align with your core values. When your actions match your beliefs, you reinforce your authenticity.
7. Be Vulnerable: Don’t be afraid to show your imperfections. Sharing challenges can make you more relatable and trustworthy.
8. Find Your Authentic Voice: Embrace your unique way of communicating while ensuring you stay professional. A natural tone fosters genuine connections.

By following these steps, you can develop a more authentic leadership style that resonates with your team and encourages them to do the same.

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Questions for Reflection

As you consider your own leadership journey, I encourage you to reflect on these:

• What values are most important to you, and how do they shape your leadership style?
• How can you create a safe space for your team to express their true selves?
• In what ways can you share your personal stories to strengthen connections with your colleagues?
• What steps will you take to ensure your actions align with your core beliefs?

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In today’s complex leadership landscape, authenticity is not just a trend; it’s essential for effective leadership. By being true to yourself, you can build trust, inspire your team, and create a positive workplace culture. Remember, authenticity is a powerful way to connect with others and lead effectively.

Let’s embrace it, and leave the fake behind!