Why Authenticity Matters When Replacing Someone with a Different Style

Imagine this: you’ve just stepped into a new leadership role, and the person before you was all about top-down management. You, on the other hand, believe in collaboration and open dialogue. The team is used to the old style, and now they’re looking to you for guidance. This is where authenticity becomes your best friend. When you’re authentic, you bring your true self to the table, and that’s what helps ease the transition and build trust with your team.

What is Authenticity?

Authenticity means being true to who you are, your values, and your leadership style. It’s about leading with integrity and honesty. In any career, being authentic is crucial because it builds trust and creates transparency, creating a positive and productive work environment. Authentic leaders are those who can genuinely share who they are in a relevant context, AND inspire and motivate their teams - even when stepping into new and challenging roles.

Who Needs to Hear This?

Authenticity isn’t just for executives. It’s especially important for new leaders and those in the middle of the management hierarchy – managers, supervisors, and team leads. Maybe you’re stepping into a leadership role for the first time; it’s important to balance your unique style with the existing team dynamics. In management and for team leads, you are the link between the higher-ups and the front line, so authentically building relationships on both sides is what you are charged with doing. Your people need someone they know and can depend on for guidance.

So, in the case of a transition from one leadership style to your style, which might be different, what can you do? Great question! Here are some tips to consider.

1. Self-Reflection: Take some time to understand your style, or what I like to call, your leadership essence. What are your values and strengths? What do you stand for? What do you stand against? What makes you tick? What sets you off? The awareness that comes with self-reflection is gold! Think about what makes you unique and how you can bring more of that to your new role.
2. Communicate Openly: Be upfront about your vision, goals, and expectations. Transparency invites trust and collaboration. Say what you can as early and frequently as you can. Nature abhors a vacuum, and so do your employees when they are left hanging with little or no information.
3. Build Trust: Consistency is key. Who you are and how you show up for your team members is critical. People need to know who to expect and how you’ll lead them. Authenticity allows you to show up and build relationships from the place of who you authentically are instead of who you think you need to be.
4. Leverage Strengths: Recognize the good things your predecessor did. Are there ways to adapt those strengths as you move forward with your new team? Notice that I said adapt—meaning you aren’t copying them; you are finding your way to model them. This also shows respect for your predecessor and helps with the transition.
5. Seek Feedback: Where appropriate, ask for input from your team and colleagues. Use this feedback to improve and show your commitment to creating a more collaborative way forward.

These steps will help you make a significant impact as an authentic leader. Not only will you grow personally, but you’ll also see improvements in your team’s development and the overall success of your organization.

What’s Next?

Ready to take action? In the next 48 hours, try one of these:

1. Reflect on your core values and how they align with your leadership style.
2. Have an open conversation with your team about the upcoming changes and ask for their feedback.
3. Think of one strength your predecessor had and how you can incorporate it into your approach.

As you take on this new leadership role, keep in mind that being authentic is your best tool. Staying true to who you are and leading with honesty not only builds trust but also creates a positive vibe with your team. Embrace your unique style, be open with your team, and support them through the changes. Authentic leadership is about making a genuine impact that everyone can feel. So, go ahead and take those next steps with confidence. Your authenticity is one of your biggest and most impactful advantages. Leverage it!

Here is wishing you the Clarity you deserve to make the Impact you desire!