Berger Leadership Blog

Regardless of your preferred leadership style, there is one attribute that, if lacking, will restrict your growth and keep you from your full potential. This trait is authenticity.

"Congruence between values and actions is one of the most important qualities of influential leaders," writes Inc.com contributor Matthew Jones. "It's that congruence that motivates you to become your best self."

A truly authentic leader understands that it is not about what they say but who they are. When you are able to fully cultivate authenticity, it is then that people trust, listen to and follow you.

Forbes contributor Kevin Kruse provides a list of what authentic leaders are. His list includes:

1. Authentic leaders are self-aware and genuine.
2. Authentic leaders are mission-driven and focused on results.
3. Authentic leaders lead with their heart.
4. Authentic leaders focus on the long term.

You cannot fake authenticity. Jones further explains that "Being a leader requires you to trust your instincts. Listen to your intuition. And take action aligned with those sources of knowledge. That's what leads to congruence and authenticity."

Being an authentic leader is not easy and requires constant focus – but that is what makes it so influential.

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