Having a boss, or superior who is authentic is something that people may take for granted. But is authenticity important and does it matter? Authenticity is the quality of being true, or real. In today’s social media frenzy, with Zoom meetings offering image filters to improve your appearance, is anyone really authentically themselves anymore?
One of our Co-Founders was asked to do a quick, five minute introduction to herself and our business. After some tech issues, a quick relocation and a reboot on her laptop she found herself sitting in her car answering a series of quick-fire questions. On one level, and probably in hindsight, maybe she should have delayed until she could be more ‘professional’ and have the right backdrop. But then on another, after spending the morning talking about the assumptions people make, there seemed little point. Wasn’t it better to be authentic and deliver the introduction as planned? Or would that be seen as unprofessional?
Twenty years ago, when the divides were clearer we all had a professional image. This term meant – how people perceived you at work. This combination of characteristics could come across as professional or unprofessional, depending on how you presented yourself. However, in reality what you are wouldn’t change. You would still have the same knowledge and expertise sitting at home, wrapped up in your oversized blanket, even though wearing this to the office may be considered ‘unprofessional’. But how does being professional and unprofessional relate to whether we are authentic?
To be professional, means you are skilled, experienced and competent in a particular activity. It means your image reflects this, so that people know (e.g., how you dress and behave) you know what you are doing and are good at doing it. So, just because someone may not turn up in the attire we expect them to wear this does not mean they are not highly skilled and competent. Ironically, when asked to imagine a successful professional, the vast majority of people still imagine a man in a suit. This in itself is a very non-inclusive image and based on a vast array of societal assumptions.
Many branding experts highlight that the point of a professional image is to increase trust between consumers and your business. By doing this, leads can increase, because people believe (rightly or wrongly) that you are professional. In that, you show capable skills and high levels of competency because you ‘look’ professional in their mind. The rise of social media has allowed many people to appear professional, or even unprofessional, in ways that never used to be available to us.
When you meet someone, generally it becomes clear whether they know what they are talking about, especially if you are an expert. But online, this perception can be managed and promoted. Think back to the five-minute video question introduction our Co-Founder did. If it had been in a huge office (as opposed to a car) with detailed slide deck, the chances are people may report a higher level of trust for our company. But in reality, the office space and backdrop would have had no material impact on the ability and competence of the team. Because (and I can assure you as I am said Co-Founder who is writing this article!) the knowledge and expertise haven’t changed of the people involved. In addition, for any potential clients reading this, the team at Think Organisation do not deliver workshops from our cars. Not only would this look unprofessional, but it wouldn’t meet the objectives of a workshop which is the purpose of us facilitating them. Or would it? Maybe carpool karaoke could become a thing for team-building workshops?
The reason, in the opinion of the Think Organisation, and based on over twenty years experience across over 30 industries, all leaders need to be authentic because authentic leaders are what build cultures that drive business success. Professional behaviour is characterised by being considerate, focused and empathetic. All key attributes of being professional, as outlined by Indeed (2019) also outline what attributes are required for an inspirational and successful leader.
In fact, for those unsure there is even a list of how to come across as professional (HR Future, 2024). So, if it is so easy to ‘appear’ professional – how do we know if people really are ‘professional’ as in ‘skilled and capable’.
Authenticity
Harvard Business Review outlined in 2019, that Authentic leadership is a leadership style exhibited by individuals who have high standards of integrity, take responsibility for their actions, and make decisions based on principle rather than short-term success.”.
To determine if you are truly authentic – ask yourself?
- When was the last time you acted in a way that felt completely true to yourself, even if it was challenging?
- How do you ensure your actions align with your personal values, especially in difficult situations?
- Are there moments when you feel pressured to conform or present yourself differently to meet others’ expectations? How do you manage those situations?
- What role does vulnerability play in how you communicate or connect with others?
- How do you balance being open to growth and change while staying grounded in who you truly are?
These questions, whilst difficult to answer, help us understand more about ourselves.
Authentic individuals tend to use their inner compasses to guide their daily actions, which enables them to earn the trust of their employees, peers, and shareholders. This creates work environments where people trust each other and team performance is boosted. Through introspection, we can all become more authentic.
Ask yourself if your own leader is authentic?
- Do they consistently act in a way that aligns with the values they promote within the organisation?
- How do they respond when faced with difficult decisions or feedback – do they take responsibility and show transparency?
- Do they genuinely listen to others’ perspectives and encourage open, honest dialogue?
- Can you see evidence of their commitment to personal growth and self-awareness, particularly in how they adapt and improve over time?
- Do their actions inspire trust and respect, or do they seem to prioritise appearances over substance?
At times it can be difficult to understand authenticity, especially in a world that promotes ‘images’. However, these questions aim to assess whether a leader demonstrates integrity, self-awareness, and a genuine connection with their team. All of which, if they do, drive high performance, trust and success.
