We read everywhere in leadership literature that for the future we need transformational leaders or authentic leaders. So what is the difference? Do transformational leaders need to be authentic and vice versa?
Transformational leaders are all about results. Are we significantly different now than we were when we started? Do we inspire change in important ways?
Authenticity is more about the person. Does the leader have a great deal of self knowledge and let others see the real self? Is the leader true to his or her values, beliefs and standards? Authenticity does not mean being insensitive to others and self-important. It is being aware of the fear that may underlie acting self-important and managing it. It is having empathy for others because of being so self-aware.
Authenticity seems to cross all boundaries of leadership styles.
