The Characteristics of An Authentic Leader

I think it would be useful at this point to try to list the characteristics of an Authentic Leader.  Then take them one at a time and discuss how to develop those characteristics in subsequent blogs.  Here are the characteristics I think an Authentic Leader should try to develop.

 Vision – The ability to see and define the a future description for the organization, not an attempt to forecast it.

Mission - The ability to convert the vision into results that must be achieved and clearly communicate the mission.

Value driven – Driven by a set of values that define how to function ie…. the right things to do.

Consistency – Always driven by vision, mission, and values.  Never wavering because of circumstances or image.

Empathetic – Understanding of the impact you have on others in the organization.

Goal Driven – Always accessing the impact of any action on the achievement of the organizations goals and changing activities never the goals.

Communications – The ability to listen well and clearly communicate with all levels of an organization.

I am sure there are others that you might think are important to add to this list.  Provide them in your comments.

Defining the 21st Century Leader

The need for genuine and committed leaders has never been more evident. 

  

Although we have leaders at all levels of every type of organization in existence, how many of them are genuinely committed to building long term organizations, motivating their associates to provide superior service, and creating long term value for all their stakeholders?  Do they even understand what it will take to accomplish these types of outcomes?

Today’s leaders, and those who have aspirations to become leaders in our society, must understand and become committed to the principles and values of “Authentic Leadership”.  The purpose of this blog is to discuss those principles and how to develop the ability to live by those principles as a leader in the 21^st century.

These principles apply to individuals at all levels in any type of organization.  They apply to businesses of any size, non-profits, religious organizations, government agencies and departments, consulting groups, legal firms, hospitals, etc… I think you get the idea.

I do not have all the answers.  I have some, and a lot of questions.  This blogs goal is to build a body of knowledge that will provide existing leaders and those who want to become great leaders a clear, simple, and sure plan to become true “Authentic Leaders”.

Let’s start with the definition of an “Authentic Leader”.  I like Bill George’s definition from his recent book on the subject. 

“Authentic leaders genuinely desire to serve others through their leadership.  They are more interested in empowering the people they led to make a difference than they are in power, money, or prestige for themselves.  They are as guided by qualities of the heart, by passion and compassion, as they are by qualities of the mind.

Authentic leaders are not born that way.  Manny people have natural leadership gifts, but they have to develop them fully to become outstanding leaders.  Authentic leaders use their natural abilities, but they also recognize their shortcomings and work hard to overcome them.  They lead with purpose, meaning, and values.  They build enduring relationships with people.  Others follow them because they know where they stand.  They are consistent and self-disciplined.  When their principles are tested, they refuse to compromise.  Authentic leaders are dedicated to developing themselves because key know that becoming a leader takes a lifetime of personal growth.”

The questions before us is how does one go about developing these characteristics, and are there other principles that must be included in the definition?

 What are your thoughts?