One of the dictionary's definitions of authenticity is, undisputed credibility. How good would it be to be known as having undisputed credibility? Well, the good news is that each and every one of us has the wherewithal to achieve that. It's both a choice and a journey.
Occasionally, when I'm running seminars and workshops, there's a kind of glazed look that comes over certain members of the group when I mention authenticity. I think it's because some individuals, particularly in the business world, have received so many mixed messages about authenticity and what it means. I hear people say, "Well, it's me just being me, isn't it?" If only it were that simple.
If we use undisputed credibility as one of the outcomes of being authentic, I think you'll agree, irrespective of who you are or what you do, being known as credible garners more trust and respect. Moreover, it's how we learn to trust ourselves. Being someone who has a reputation for being credible is a testament like no other. Knowing we have this reputation helps us to feel more buoyed about ourselves, in fact, it ties into being authentic.
In order to be authentic, it's important we acknowledge and honor parts of how we've developed over the years -- both the positive and the negative. This acknowledgment helps us to recognize aspects of our behaviors and actions that we'd like to enhance, modify or change. If you think about people who strike you as being authentic, it's likely their traits will be both admirable and inspirational. In essence, if we strive to be someone who's considered admirable and inspirational, as if by osmosis, authenticity will likely follow.
A female client, who's Personal Brand as a businessperson was considered friendly, helpful and credible, told me she berated one of her managers publicly for not completing a task on time. This kind of behavior was completely uncharacteristic for this woman. She said, "I gave him what for, that's who I am, that was me being authentic." I suggested that's not how she's perceived, and in my opinion, not who she is. I further suggested that her anger and frustration are what caused her to berate this person publicly. In essence, this behavior wasn't her being authentic, it was who she became when her emotions took over.
There seems to be some discrepancy between emotion and passion. Passion, which is the way some people describe their emotional outbursts, is exclusive, all about you. However, when we convey passion, it's inclusive, it's all about us. You take people with you when you communicate passion; you leave people behind when you allow your emotions to run the show. Just being aware of this encourages us to be more of who we really are.
To develop and convey an authentic Personal Brand, just be the person you are the most proud of. And at times, when you are not being authentic, which is normal, take a step back, say or do something there and then that strikes a note of authenticity. It's a perfect opportunity for you to "show up."
Here are eight tips on how to have a more authentic Personal Brand:
1. Be conscious of how you'd like others to talk about you.
2. Develop the ability to dissolve self-consciousness
3. Be the you you're most proud of
4. Admit your mistakes and learn from them
5. Say what you mean and mean what you say
6. Build a reputation that truly represents who you are
7. Notice times when you're not being authentic
8. Trust your intuition as it relates to feeling authentic
Follow Malcolm Levene on Twitter: www.twitter.com/malcolmlevene
Malcolm Levene: Communicating Who You Really Are, Both Online and Off
Marc Lesser: The Personal Branding Paradox: Being Nobody
As you say, 'Personal Branding has been tragically misunderstood...' Hopefully, if enough of us tell it as it really is, it'll hold some sway.
Really appreciate your support and wise words.
Undisputed credibility is hard to get but an absolute gem once gained.
As you say, those who are authentic are at home with their personal story. And that's the nub of it - making our 'personal story' a story we are both proud of and comfortable with.
And the 'gem' you refer to, is available to us all, we just need to look no further than ourselves to find it.
It's the 'challenge' that makes it more exciitng, don't you think?
Thanks, Malcolm, for another insightful and thought provoking post.
Your point about 'the more we become who we are', is spot on. And yes, 'the further we travel on' our journey to becoming who we are, the more authentic we'll become.
Thank you for such thoughtful comments.
What a thought-provoking post. My favorite line is that authenticity is both a "choice and a journey". I hope I can always remember to choose wisely and learn from the journey of my mistakes. Thank you for sharing your wisdom.
Kate
That you want to remember to 'choose wisely', is indeed a choice. I wish you well on your personal journey.
My best,
Malcolm
As you say, Self Awarenes & Self Managment 'are important in how we convey ourselves to others.' These are key elements in being an effective communicator in business and in life.
May your life experiences help others to improve theirs.
Best wishes,
Malcolm .