There’s a fundamental problem with the idea that being authentic at work is the solution to team performance and something a leader has to show and strive for. It’s an idea which has been overstated and seems to have more in common with the modern trend of over sharing and splurging personal feelings on social media.
Introverts are no more, or less authentic, than extroverts; even though they may spend less time-sharing personal views and feelings. In fact they value being part of a close knit team.
Looking at what authenticity is reveals that psychological safety at work needs to come first and that this is what a leader should strive for, rather than authenticity.
How are you working on the psychological safety in your team?
