Are you the challenge or the challenger?

 Navigating the New Era of Authenticity

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Let’s consider: In our modern workplace, being a leader has long extended beyond mere job responsibilities—it's about acting as a role model whose behavior sets the tone for others to follow. It’s about giving clear directions, being open minded and connecting with people, being relatable and being reliable; all to drive employee engagement to drive business success. Just like with children, a leader’s actions are constantly being observed and imitated by our colleagues. When faced with behaviors we don't admire, it's reminding of unruly kids and we're prompted to ask, "Where do they get this from?". Either way the weight of leaders as role model impacts daily business around the world.

Pioneered by celebrated figureheads of today’s economy, we have entered the new era of "you be you" and by that have given an open invitation to everyone in the workforce to being true to who they are; to be authentic; to be the best version of themselves. But here I am, asking: do we really mean that? Do we truly welcome all authenticity or are there still (hidden) rules to behave by?

Looking for shining examples of “true to themselves”-leaders, you won’t need to look far. Who does not curiously read about the impact of Mark Zuckerberg’s t-shirts on his business behavior, watches for Elon Musk’s next big thing or even secretly admires a Donald Trump for his irritating but unswerving self-marketing? So, what happens when the true you isn't exactly a shining example? When you have edges and flaws like – well, just like any other human being?

Are we truly prepared to embrace the real, unfiltered versions of ourselves in the professional world? Will any given self-presentation drive any strategy? It's a question that challenges the very essence of modern workplace culture, especially now that terms like vulnerability, ongoing self-healing, and diversity, equity, and inclusion are becoming part of everyday conversation even in the farthest corner of the business world.

In this era of self-expression, the desire for relatable, charismatic and vulnerable leaders clashes with the clear-cut, polished and reliable business decisions the outside world demands. Equally so businesses are consciously investing in flat hierarchies, remote and agile working, DE&I, employee wellbeing and so on and so force – finally adding on to the very same leadership expectations. And yes, these expectations lead to a leadership under the magnifying glass.

So, when you are under constant observation to lead by example AND to you be you, why not make the most of it and enhance your vision with the special thing only you have? But use that super-influencer-power wisely. If you don't like what you see in the workplace, it's time to think about your role in shaping things. It is your choice to be the challenge or the challenger: Go out and ask for feedback: 360 feedback has proven to bring valuable insights to the surface. Take a look inside and reflect: journaling can help identify patterns in behavior. And lastly, don’t forget to have fun on the way.

In this journey towards authenticity, humor serves as a fueling tool. A good laugh can break down barriers and foster genuine connections, reminding us that strong relationships are built on mutual respect and understanding. So, whether it's receiving a "nice job" or striving for a "good job," let's approach our interactions with sincerity and a sprinkle of humor, creating a workplace where you feel safe enough to lead as YOU.