To be authentic you must be real or genuine, not copied or false, true and accurate. To be an expert requires particular skills or knowledge in a specific field. To be successful as an entrepreneur or business leader you need to have both qualities. It is one thing to be experienced and highly knowledgeable about your chosen field, but quite another to present this information to clients accurately and in a genuine fashion. Being an expert is not being a know-it-all, nor does it mean being condescending and this is where authenticity comes in, getting your message across in a sincere and genuine way.
The following are some tips on blending expertise with authenticity.
- Get The Facts Right – Take the extra time to check out facts and details before getting caught using inaccurate figures. Make sure your information is up-to-date and that you are solidly informed on the subject. Keep learning about your field and never stop learning. Most importantly keep an open mind about new ideas and procedures. Being prepared with the most accurate information is part of expertise, sharing it with others in a sincere way shows your authenticity.
- Be Yourself – Trying to imitate a successful colleague won’t get you very far, and what works for them likely won’t work for you and will only diminish your authenticity. Learn to embrace what’s different about you, whether you are flashy and outspoken or quiet and deliberate, be yourself. Work on aspects of your personality that can enhance your skills and professionalism, but don’t try to be someone or something you are not.
- Don’t Be Afraid To Show Emotion – Being a professional doesn’t mean you have to appear stoic or robotic. Allowing team members and clients to see some real emotion makes them feel closer to you and see you as more than just a leader or professional. The expertise you have acquired is best served by matching it with the authenticity of a feeling, sensitive human being.
- Be True To Yourself – Don’t try and hide behind a veneer or impartiality, be honest and upfront about what you value and believe in. Live your beliefs and keep yourself in alignment and integrity with them. You can’t please everyone all of the time, you will find that your beliefs differ with those of others from time to time, but pretending to agree with people and going against your beliefs demeans your authenticity, and you will eventually be found out. Standing up for your convictions will garner respect and show you to be honourable and authentic.
Clients and team members appreciate your experience and when you match your knowledge with a sincere and genuine persona you have the perfect blend or expertise and authenticity – a winning combination.
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