In a world where transparency and trust are more valued than ever, authentic leadership is emerging as a game-changing style. Unlike leadership styles that rely on authority or charisma alone, authentic leadership is about staying true to yourself and fostering genuine connections with your team.
Authenticity has always been a major plus for leaders, but it’s become even more essential with Gen Z entering the workforce. As shown by the Deloitte 2024 report, 86% of Gen Zers consider purpose-driven work to be important for their job satisfaction and well-being. They want and are becoming leaders who walk their talk and create environments where everyone feels seen and valued. If you’re not leading authentically, you might struggle to connect with this dynamic and purpose-driven group.
In this article, we’ll unpack everything you need to know about authentic leadership. Whether you’re looking to become an authentic leader or already consider yourself one but want to strengthen this leadership style, we’ll explore what it means, the traits that define it, why it’s amazing (and sometimes challenging), and how practical steps can embrace or enhance it further.
What is the meaning of authentic leadership?
Authentic leadership means you’re a leader who isn’t afraid to admit mistakes, leads with empathy, and makes decisions based on solid values—not just short-term gains. The “authentic leadership” definition also means that you’re genuine, relatable, and ethical. Authentic leaders focus on building trust and fostering a culture where everyone feels valued and heard.
Research shows that organizations that embrace authentic leadership see better engagement and stronger connections across their teams. When leaders demonstrate an internalized moral perspective, self-awareness, relational transparency, and balanced processing at work, they’re likely to build employee trust.
Examples of authentic leaders
Some examples of authentic leaders today include Howard Schultz, former CEO of Starbucks; Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand; and Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft. Regardless of how you personally feel about them, it’s a fact that they live and lead authentically by staying true to their values while inspiring their teams.
5 authentic leadership characteristics in the workplace
Authentic leaders are everywhere. They can be one of your teachers, politicians, friends, or idols. But let’s focus on the authentic leadership style in the workplace. Here are the authentic leadership characteristics that define authentic leaders in the workplace.
1. Self-awareness
Authentic leaders know themselves inside and out. They understand their own strengths, weaknesses, and what drives them. This self-awareness helps them stay grounded and lead with purpose.
2. Transparency
Ever worked with someone who left you guessing what they really think? Authentic leaders aren’t like that. They’re open and honest, sharing their challenges, reasoning, and even the occasional misstep. Transparency builds trust—plain and simple.
3. Consistency
Actions speak louder than words. Authentic leaders walk their talk. Their decisions and behavior align with their values, making them reliable and trustworthy.
4. Empathy
Great leaders know it’s not just about the work—it’s about the people. Authentic leaders take the time to understand their team’s perspectives, challenges, and dreams. They lead with compassion, not just commands.
5. Long-term focus
Authentic leaders play the long game. They’re not about quick wins that sacrifice the bigger picture. Instead, they’re focused on sustainable success for their team and organization.
Pros and cons of authentic leadership
Like any leadership style, authentic leadership has noteworthy benefits as well as certain disadvantages.
Benefits of authentic leadership
Let’s start with the good stuff. Authentic leadership brings some serious perks.
- Trust like no other: When you’re real with people, they’re real with you. Authentic leaders inspire trust and loyalty in their teams.
- Sky-high engagement: People want to work with leaders they believe in. When your team feels connected to you, they’re more engaged and motivated.
- Stronger collaboration: Authentic leaders create a safe space for open communication, which makes teamwork a breeze.
- Resilience in tough times: When challenges arise, authentic leaders don’t just weather the storm—they guide their team through it with confidence and calm.
The challenges of keeping it real
Here are a few hurdles authentic leaders might face.
- Feeling vulnerable: Letting your guard down and being open about your struggles or uncertainties might leave you feeling exposed.
- Finding the balance: Staying true to your values while navigating workplace politics isn’t always easy. Diplomacy and authenticity need to go hand in hand.
- Time commitment: Building trust and genuine relationships takes time and consistent effort—but the payoff is worth it.
Want to strengthen or step into authentic leadership? Here's how
Whether you're aiming to become an authentic leader or enhance the qualities you already have, these are the next steps to take.
Reflect on your values
Take a moment to think about what truly matters to you. What principles guide your decisions? Knowing your values is the foundation of authentic leadership.
Read this next: 21 Leadership Values Every Leader Should Embrace
Get to know yourself
Self-awareness is key. Spend time understanding your strengths, weaknesses, and emotional triggers. Tools like journaling, feedback from trusted colleagues, or mindfulness practices can help.
Speak your truth
Honesty is your superpower. Be transparent in your communication—whether it’s sharing the reasoning behind a decision or admitting when you don’t have all the answers. Your team will respect your candor.
Lead with empathy
Put yourself in your team’s shoes. Listen actively and show that you care about their experiences. Empathy builds bridges and strengthens relationships.
Align actions with words
Consistency is non-negotiable. Make sure your behavior reflects your values. When you walk your talk, you inspire others to do the same.
Bottom line
Authentic leadership is a powerful way to lead with purpose and integrity. By staying true to your values, being transparent, and showing empathy, you can create a workplace culture that thrives on trust and collaboration.
Sure, it’s not always easy. Being an authentic leader means being vulnerable, and that can be scary. But the rewards—for you, your team, and your organization—are worth every ounce of effort. So why not take that first step today? Reflect on your values, align your actions with your beliefs, and start leading the way only you can.
Your next leadership role might be here—browse amazing opportunities on The Muse »