AUTHENTIC LEADERSHIP

Question 1

3 Definitions

Answer 1

1. Intrapersonal Perspective

• Leaders are leading from conviction and as an original, not a copy
• Actions based on own values, moral standards & ethics

2. Interpersonal Process

• Authenticity emerges from interactions between leaders and followers
• Leader can only create changes when their message is accepted by followers

3. Developmental Perspective

• Authentic Leadership can be triggered by major life events (e.g. new career, severe illness)

Question 2

4 Components that form Authentic Leadership (Walumbwa)

Answer 2

1. Self-awareness

• Process in which individuals understand themselves
• Give followers insight in weaknesses, strengths, emotions, lifegoals

2. Internalized moral Perspective

• Using internal moral standards rather than outside pressure to guide behavior
• Actions are consistent with expressed beliefs and morals

3. Balanced processing

• Ability to analyze information objectively and explore other people’s opinions
• Being open about own perspective and objectives but also in considering others opinions

4. Relational Transparency

• Being open and honest in presenting one’s true self to others
• Share core feelings and motives in appropriate manner -> if you are impressed by others show it
• Build up transparency and trust

Question 3

3 Factors that are influencing Authentic Leaders (Walumbwa)

Answer 3

1. Positive Psychological Capacities

• optimism, hope, confidence, resilience

2. Moral Reasoning

• Capacity to make ethical decisions about issues of right/wrong
• Enables leaders to promote justice and achieve what is right for community

3. Critical Life Events

• Can be positive or negative
• Act as catalysts for change
• If leaders present their life events they become more authentic

Question 4

5 Characteristics Leaders should develope to become an Authentic Leader

Answer 4

1. Value-centered -> knowing and reflecting one’s values
2. Self-disciplined -> focused and determined
3. Purposeful -> knowing what one is about and where one is going
4. Relational -> establishing a connection with others
5. Compassionate -> being sensitive to the plight of others

Question 5

Strengths & Weaknesses of the Authentic Leadership Approach

Answer 5

Pros:

• Trustworthy for society
• Provides broad guidelines for individuals who want to become authentic leaders
• Explicit moral dimension
• Can be learned and improved over time

Cons:

• Moral component is not fully explained
• Questionable wether positive psychological capacities should be included
• Not clear how Authentic Leadership results in positive organizational outcomes -> can disorganized authentic leaders still be effective?