Leading with authenticity and vulnerability

Authentic leadership

In a world full of changes and challenges, one quality of leaders is more essential than ever: authenticity. In this blog, we delve deeper into the world of authentic leadership and discover why it is an indispensable quality for modern leaders.

Authenticity revolves around showing integrity, honesty, and the ability to inspire others by being your true self. “Authenticity means genuineness and therefore reliability,” says Bas Blekkingh.

Authentic leadership is also closely related to vulnerability. Real relationships are built on trust. By being vulnerable, leaders show their authentic selves. This creates an atmosphere of trust.

Brené Brown, an American professor and author, has done extensive research on Vulnerability. She describes vulnerability as a great strength. According to her, it means being honest and genuine about who you are, your feelings and experiences, even when it’s not comfortable and awkward. This also involves taking risks and opening yourself up to rejection or criticism.

Vulnerability as Weakness or Strength

From the perspective of the red drive, vulnerability could be seen as weak, but according to Brown, vulnerable leadership is not at all soft or weak.

“Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weakness.”

As Brené Brown indicates, showing vulnerability is actually very courageous and brave, and certainly not a sign of weakness.

The Benefits of Vulnerability in the Workplace

According to Brené Brown, vulnerability leads to joy and meaningful connections with others. It also leads to trust. Teams that trust their leader work more effectively and efficiently together, communicate better with each other, are more engaged with their team and organization, and experience a lower level of stress.

Moreover, showing vulnerability fosters a culture where feedback can be given. A leader who is open to feedback invites their team to do the same. In this way, feedback is valued and encouraged by the leader.