What is your leadership style and how well does it reflect who you really are?
Successful professionals and leaders who excel at what they do often admit in private that they feel like frauds, or worse, that they have lost their sense of self in pursuit of business goals and the demands of the job. In order to succeed, they have learned to adapt to the organizational culture, to “fit in”, and to meet others’ expectations, sometimes at the expense of their own sense of self.
How does authenticity at work make a difference?
Ironically, by showing who you really are as a person, including your strengths and imperfections, you might stand a better chance at succeeding in the work place.
Kevin Cashman, author and executive coach, writes inLeadership from the Inside Out, that one of the most important competencies for sustainable leadership is authenticity. People will excel if they honour who they are, both their strengths and vulnerabilities. It matters, according to Cashman, because leaders who bring their full sense of self to work are more likely to focus on their team, their organization and their customers…and not just on themselves.
“…[leaders] see their purpose beyond their limited selves as passionate instruments of service and contribution. Authentic leaders understand that if our lives do not stand for something bigger than ourselves, our leadership lacks purpose.”
Still skeptical? Listen to Brené Brown’s TED Talk on how people who show vulnerability are more likely to connect with others and to feel a stronger sense of belonging.
Every person has a unique story. Understanding how your story has shaped your identity can make you a better leader and a happier human being. Learn to build on your natural talents and acknowledge your personal triggers. Start with yourself and watch what can happen to those around you.
When you are at your best, what comes naturally to you as a leader?
When you are most energized and engaged, how are you contributing to your team?
What obstacles get in the way of being the kind of leader you want to be?
What would be different if you were more yourself?
Want to learn more about how authentic leadership can work for you and your team? Contact me for a complimentary leadership coaching session.
News and Events
I am excited to announce thatKrakauer Coaching & Consulting has a new online look and new features. Visit the bookstore for a quick browse of “Lianne’s recommendations” orcheck out upcoming events. Know a good book or online resource you would like to share? Let me know.
Women and Leadership in the Legal Profession on November 5th- 6th. I have been invited to speak about leadership for women in law and how to successfully take the next step forward. Click for information and to register.
Risks and rewards of working solo: Read how three lawyers set out to build professional businesses that support the lives they want to live. They are working to live instead of living to work.
Whatever professional path you have chosen, going solo can be a daunting task. Before you decide whether it is feasible for you, take the time to assess the risks and rewards.
What is really important to you?
How will your work/business enable you to live the life you want?
What are you willing to risk to get there?
What’s the first step you can take?
Contact me to find out about “Going Solo” coaching packages.
Tikkato is hosting its first professional development event for coaches & counselors.Coaching Cornucopia! Tools for Clarity & Transformation. Join a group of experienced coaches from a variety of fields and learn new coaching tools and techniques. Great chance to connect and learn. Friday, October 18th, 9:30 – 12:30 p.m. Centre for Social Innovation Spadina, Toronto. Click for info and to register.
a solutions focused approach to work & life transitions
Lianne Krakauer is a career and leadership coach with 20 years of experience in professional services, law, education and the public sector. She works with individuals and teams to manage transitions successfully and to bring about positive sustainable change. Lianne has facilitated workshops and presented on a wide range of topics related to career and leadership development, communication and coaching.
Lianne has a Bachelor of Laws and a Master of Education (Counselling Psychology), both from the University of Toronto; and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Western Ontario. She has a Graduate Certificate in Executive Coaching from Royal Roads University and specialized training in Solutions Focused Coaching. She is certified to administer the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator®.
