Explore the Meaning & Importance of Authentic Leadership

Navigating the transition from peer to manager can be a fun and stimulating journey. It’s important to keep in mind who you were, personality wise, before you became a manager. Identifying a leadership style is an important part of your management journey. The leadership style represents the manager's personal brand in the professional realm, encompassing how they communicate, plan, delegate, lead, and execute decisions.

You should recognize early on that the management style is a direct reflection of the manager's personality and should not deviate significantly from who they are in their personal life. As you step into the managerial role, maintaining authenticity is key. There's no need for a radical transformation or adopting a persona that feels disconnected from who you genuinely are.

Understanding the challenges of wanting to make a positive impression on the team and gain their respect, you as the manager, should consider blending your personality with an elevated sense of professionalism. This forms a personalized leadership style that resonates with both the yourself and the team, while remaining true to who you are.

Leadership isn't about being 'the boss' but rather about supporting the team and collaboratively finding solutions to challenges. Approaching the role with an understanding, empathetic mindset will foster a healthier and more productive work environment. It's essential to remember that a heavy-handed approach can lead to resentment among the team.

Before the promotion, you already exhibited leadership qualities. Now, it's time to explore various leadership styles and identify those that align with your natural tendencies and the leadership brand you aim to build.

As you navigate this leadership journey, seeking mentorship is a smart move. A mentor can provide support in identifying and refining the leadership style, ensuring that it authentically aligns with who you are and the leader you aspire to be.