Authentic leadership isn't a fad, it's a necessity. In a world where trust is a scarce asset and people are looking for genuine references, leading with authenticity has become the key to inspiring, connecting and building truly committed teams.

Being authentic doesn't simply mean “being yourself”. It involves developing deep self-awareness, leading with strong values and demonstrating coherence between what you think, say and do. It is the foundation of a healthy organizational culture and of teams that work with purpose and a sense of belonging.

If you want to put aside leadership based on control and superficial image, and start to lead from your essence, here are five fundamental keys to achieve it.

1. Know Yourself Before Leading Others

Authentic leadership starts from within. You can't inspire others if you haven't first done the work of discovering who you are, what values guide you, and what your purpose as a leader is. Self-awareness is the foundation of authenticity.

Ask yourself:

• What values are non-negotiable for me?
• How do I want to impact my team and my environment?
• Am I leading from my core or from what I think others expect of me?

Great leaders spend time reflecting on these questions and aligning their leadership with their real identity.

2. Be transparent and communicate honestly

Nothing destroys trust faster than inconsistency and dishonesty. An authentic leader doesn't hide information, doesn't mask reality, and isn't afraid to show vulnerability when necessary. Transparency builds credibility and strengthens relationships within the team.

Practical Tips:

• Be direct and clear in your communication, without double talk.
• Share both achievements and challenges with your team.
• Don't be afraid to say “I don't know” or “I was wrong” when necessary.

Leaders who communicate with authenticity create an environment where trust and psychological safety allow people to do their best.

3. Lead with values and purpose

Teams follow leaders who have a clear vision and act with integrity. When you lead from strong values and a defined purpose, your team perceives coherence and aligns more naturally with the culture you're building.

Exercise:

• Define the three main values that govern your leadership.
• Ask your team if they see these values in your daily life.
• Adjust your actions to consistently reflect what you stand for.

Value-based leadership not only builds better teams, but it also impacts the organization's sustainability and reputation.

4. Foster genuine relationships with your team

Authentic leadership is based on real relationships. It's not just about giving orders, but about building genuine connections with people. A leader who truly cares about his team generates commitment and loyalty.

Ways to strengthen relationships:

• Listen actively to your team without interruption or judgment.
• Get to know their aspirations and challenges, beyond the professional field.
• Celebrate their accomplishments and stand with them in difficult times.

When you lead with authenticity, people don't just follow you because of your role, but because of the trust you build in them.

5. Be a model of authenticity and consistency

Leadership isn't preached, it's demonstrated. Authenticity isn't a discourse, it's a daily practice. If you want your team to be genuine and committed, you must first demonstrate it yourself.

Action Key:

• Check if your behavior reflects what you say.
• Ask people you trust if they see consistency in your leadership.
• Adjust what is necessary so that your actions are aligned with your principles.

When you lead with consistency, your team's trust grows and a work environment is created where everyone can show themselves as they are.

Authenticity and leadership at UNUSUAL

In UNUSUAL, we believe that authentic leadership is the foundation of any real transformation. You can't lead change if you haven't first done the internal work of discovering who you are and what impact you want to make.

Our focus on UNUSUAL Club is designed to help you enhance your authenticity as a leader, develop value-based leadership and build more humane and effective teams.

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Leading with authenticity not only improves an organization's culture, but it also strengthens trust, commitment, and innovation within teams. Authentic leaders create environments where people can grow, contribute and feel valued.

If you want to enhance your authenticity as a leader and transform your environment, the time is now.

Discover how to enhance your authenticity as a leader at the UNUSUAL Club.

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