046: Authentic Leadership with Deborah Coviello

Soft Skills for Leaders with Lisa Evans

Gone are the days when leaders are only meant to be followed. Now, more than ever, we need authentic leadership that will move, inspire, and create a positive impact on people.

In this episode, I chat with Deborah Coviello who advocates implementing authentic leadership beyond the boardroom. For Deb, leaders need to know who they are as a leader and why do they lead.

People have become sick and tired of leaders only in title. They need someone who will roll up their sleeves and go side by side with employees. Moreover, there should be genuine care for people who are working with them.

Deb believes that leading authentically starts with doing the self-work. It requires the recognition that something needs to be done differently. Also, leaders should let go of the things that are no longer serving their purpose.

Although leaders can easily lose themselves in the process of leading, the willingness to change and do better should always be present.

When leaders are not open to making certain adjustments, they will not be heard, it delays decisions, deflates their confidence and ultimately, they are reduced to being transactional managers.

The goal of being an authentic leader is to deliver influential messages that will inspire people to be more creative in their work. It creates an impact on how communication should be done.

Deborah believes that results should never be the main target of a leader. After all, leaders are working with people with different emotions and personalities. The work needs to begin with managing good communication and making sure that they are on the same page.

The growing demand for authentic leaders is an indication that people don't just want someone they can follow. Rather, we need leaders who are open to experimenting and following their hearts.

When a person authentically leads, she creates an inspiring path for people to follow. It becomes easier to align values and aim for their business goal.

Time Stamps:

• Deborah's definition of authentic leadership (04:15)
• The obstacles of being an authentic leader (05:45)
• Impacts of not showing authenticity and vulnerability in leaders (08:15)
• The need for authentic leadership in a time of crisis (10:17)
• Utilizing self-work to do something different (13:23)
• The benefits of letting go of things that are not serving you (16:25)
• Deb’s preview of her book “The CEO'S Compass” (18:30)

Connect With Lisa Evans

speakingsavvy.com.au Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn

Connect With Deborah Coviellodropinceo.com Connect with Deborah on LinkedIn Connect with Deborah on Facebook Listen to Deborah’s podcast The Drop In CEO here.

For full show notes visit: Businesschatpodcast.com.au