10 Characteristics of an Authentic, Transparent, Vulnerable Leader

Over the years, leadership has transformed from authoritarian figures to individuals who lead authentically, transparently, and vulnerably. This new breed of leader fosters trust, encourages open communication, and builds resilient teams.

While I genuinely believe this transition is taking place, it is much slower than I had hoped, as evidenced by some companies’ standoff with returning to the office after Covid. Both sides are exhibiting signs of autocratic and sometimes dictatorial approaches.

According to the Economic Policy Institute, the economic disparity between CEOs’ pays and average workers, from 20:1 in 1965 to 69:1 in 1989 to 351:1 in 2020, also plays a significant role in workplace attitudes.

Here are ten defining characteristics of such a leader:

Genuine Self-awareness: An authentic leader recognizes their strengths and weaknesses. They are in constant pursuit of self-improvement without losing their identity. They can comfortably say, “I don’t know” or “I was wrong,” showing they are both self-aware and humble. Humility is almost a foreign word in today’s workplace as many strive to stand out and advance as fast as possible, so this is critical.

Open Communication: Transparent leaders prioritize open lines of communication. They don’t just share the good news but also the bad. They keep their teams informed, fostering a sense of unity and understanding. Too often, leaders will come up with a code of something or another and post it on the wall expecting everyone to abide by it except themselves. This is not open communication.

Empathetic Understanding: Vulnerable leaders are compassionate. They strive to understand the emotions and perspectives of those around them. This empathy helps them connect deeply with their team, promoting an environment of mutual respect. To do this well means that they must also understand their own emotions and biases and how they can trip up relationships. While not easy to do, it can be done.

Embracing Imperfection: Authentic leaders recognize that they, like everyone else, are not perfect. They’re willing to show their flaws and share personal stories, proving that they face challenges, make mistakes, and and most importantly grow from them. Striving for perfection is a losing battle; however, striving for excellence in everything we do will ensure growth and a great working environment.

Active Listening: Instead of rushing to provide solutions or dictate terms, these leaders genuinely listen to what their team members say. This shows that they value others’ inputs and understandings. In 2021, Forbes reported that 86% of workers in the US felt they were not listened to, so they provided an article offering five ways to break that perception. Check it out.

Encouraging Feedback: A transparent leader not only gives feedback but also actively seeks it. By creating an environment where feedback is encouraged, they demonstrate their commitment to growth and improvement.

Taking Accountable Actions: An authentic leader doesn’t play the blame game when things go awry. They take responsibility for their actions, ensure accountability, and focus on finding solutions rather than laying blame.

Building Trust: By consistently being open, honest, and reliable, these leaders naturally build trust. They recognize that trust isn’t just about keeping promises and consistency in their actions and words.

Trust is the foundation of any strong business relationship. It is vital for successful collaborations, client relationships, team dynamics, and more. Building trust isn’t something that can be achieved overnight; it’s a continuous process.

Valuing Diversity: Authentic leaders understand the importance of diverse perspectives. They foster inclusivity and ensure everyone feels valued, understood, and respected. They understand that different backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints contribute to richer solutions and a more robust team.

Leading with Heart: Above all, these leaders lead with their hearts. They genuinely care about the well-being and success of their teams. Their decisions are not solely based on numbers or profits but also consider the human element, ensuring that the team’s mental, emotional, and professional needs are met.

A leader who embodies authenticity, transparency, and vulnerability is invaluable in a rapidly evolving world where work dynamics and team structures continuously shift. Such leaders drive results and foster a culture of trust, unity, and resilience. They inspire by example, proving that the heart of leadership lies not in authority but in genuine connection and understanding.