Authenticity is overrated.
That might sound surprising, since you may have heard me talk about authenticity as one of the most important leadership qualities. And it is—but it’s not enough.
Authenticity is neutral. As I wrote in What Authenticity Really Means, you can be authentically lazy, authentically unprepared, or authentically impatient.
Authenticity on its own doesn’t make you a great leader. And in recent years, the word itself has become so overused it risks losing its meaning.
What leaders actually need is something deeper: alignment.
From Authenticity to Alignment
When I work with leaders, they learn that authenticity is speaking and acting in a way that reflects your core values. What we’re really focused on is alignment: the intentional practice at the heart of value-driven leadership—ensuring your words, presence, and actions consistently embody your highest values and sense of purpose.
That’s how authenticity goes from a buzzword to a standard of leadership.
What AI Teaches Us About Leadership
While writing AI for the Authentic Leader, I researched the concept of “AI alignment.” In its simplest form, it means designing AI systems so that they stay true to human values, reducing the risk of unintended consequences.
Alignment isn’t just for machines—it’s for us.
Like AI systems, leaders also need to be in alignment. We develop our own leadership style, test it in real time, and adjust when our actions drift from our values. Done well, we earn the trust of others and are able to inspire them. Done poorly, it undermines our credibility and our results.
Leadership Alignment in Practice
Leadership alignment means living—and leading—according to your values in three ways:
- Words: Communicating with clarity and integrity.
- Presence: Ensuring every part of you communicates the same message.
- Actions: Following through on your words.
These three elements work together to build leadership integrity—when what you say and what you do are consistently aligned.
Unlike traditional leadership alignment models that focus on syncing executive teams around a vision or strategy, this model starts with personal alignment. Because you can’t lead others effectively until you effectively lead yourself.
Want to apply this in your own leadership journey? Scroll down to connect or explore how I work with senior executives.
AI and Authenticity: Can They Coexist?
I recently joined Terry Brock on the Stark Raving Entrepreneurs podcast to unpack a question I hear all the time: Can you really be authentic if you’re using AI? The short answer: yes—and here’s how to do it well.
A Call to Leaders
AI alignment ensures technology serves humanity. Leadership alignment ensures we do, too.
So ask yourself: Are your words, presence, and actions in alignment with your highest values? That is the true measure of leadership.
Ready to strengthen your leadership alignment?
I work with senior leaders navigating high-stakes transitions, visibility, and influence. Let’s ensure your words, presence, and actions are aligned to your values—and your goals.