GenXmanager: Leadership for the Generation X Manager

Read Authentic Leadership: A Primer (Part I)

Last time I left you with a definition of Authentic Leadership. Here it is again:
 
“leadership behavior that draws upon and promotes positive both positive psychological capacities and a positive ethical climate, to foster greater self-awareness, an internalized moral perspective, balanced processing of information, and relational transparency on the part of leaders working with followers, fostering positive self-development (Walumbwa et al. 2008).”

Let’s delve a bit deeper.

Positive psychological capacities

I won’t go into the nuts and bolts of positive psychology here but you can read a 2005 article from Time magazine that covers the topic well. The four capacities of positive psychology are confidence, hope, optimism, and resilience (Luthans & Avolio 2003). These factors directly influence an individual’s ability to be an authentic leader. Northouse (2009) states that these factors predispose and enhance a leader’s capacity to become an authentic leader. One could argue that these are possible antecedent traits of authentic leadership.

Positive ethical climate / Moral reasoning
Authentic leaders have a finely tuned moral compass and ethics and socially responsible behavior are critical factors for the authentic leader. 

Self-awareness
Authentic leaders know their core values and understand their strengths and weaknesses. They are comfortable in their own skin and have clear goals and motives. They adhere to the message posted above the door to the Oracle’s kitchen (from the Matrix), “Temet Nosce” or “Know thyself”.

Internalized Moral Perspective
This is where the authentic leader uses his/her moral reasoning to guide their behavior. A leader may have a finely tuned moral compass but ignore it. This internalized moral perspective is about making prudent decisions in an ethical and moral manner.

Balanced processing
This is the leader’s ability to analyze information objectively. An authentic leader will want different perspectives and explore options before making a decision. The leader is also unbiased. The authentic leader will ultimately decide on a course of action based on what appears to be the best decision based on objective facts and not based on favoritism.

Relational Transparency
This is about being open and honest in communication. The authentic leader always presents his or her true self. There is no façade or hidden agenda. The authentic leader will be open about positive and negative qualities. It is about being real in all relationships.

Authentic leadership is an emerging theory and in my opinion, will be a hot leadership topic in the years to come. There is a lot of anxiety and uncertainty today. Many have lost their faith in organizational and political leaders. Perhaps one way to regain that trust is for those in leadership positions to become authentic leaders.