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In a world driven by rapid change, the call for leaders to stay true to themselves has never been louder.
With qualities like self-awareness, empathy and adaptability, authentic leadership is at the forefront of creating sustainable success and a work culture that people genuinely want to be part of. Yet, embracing this leadership style requires resilience, introspection and willingness to face challenges. The path to authentic leadership is rich with struggles and growth.
For many leaders, the journey to finding their authentic voice is a personal one, often shaped by challenges and triumphs. Individuals from diverse backgrounds and industries carve their own paths and discover that the most effective leaders aren’t necessarily the loudest or most authoritative. Instead, they are those who embrace humility, authenticity and inclusivity, harnessing their unique strengths and driving positive change through genuine connections.
Embracing your unique leadership style
In today’s complex business environment, pressures are mounting on leaders to “get it right” — to meet high expectations, show strength and maintain authority. Many find themselves torn, either trying to be everyone’s friend or taking a strict, rigid stance. But in reality, both approaches act as masks, concealing what makes them truly effective. The most impactful leaders realise that leading authentically, grounded in empathy, compassion and their unique qualities, is where their power lies.
This is often the turning point in a leader’s journey. The moment they allow themselves to lead authentically, they’re liberated from stereotypes, and what may have once felt like weaknesses — empathy, compassion, adaptability — are recognised as powerful assets. By embracing their true selves, leaders can perform with greater ease and impact and create a more engaged and fulfilled team culture.
5 tips to put empathy into action
1. Reflect on your values
As a leader, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of day-to-day decisions, but taking time to pause and reflect on what truly matters is a game changer. Ask yourself: What genuinely drives me? Whether it’s integrity, transparency or collaboration, your core values form the foundation of your leadership — take time to articulate them. When you lead authentically, it shines through in everything you do, and others will notice. So, carve out time to reconnect with what matters most to you. It’s not just about being a leader; it’s about being the right kind of leader.
2. Seek feedback
Regularly ask for feedback from your team and peers. Asking others for feedback can feel vulnerable, but the truth is that the more you seek it, the better you’ll become. It’s not about getting praise or approval; it’s about understanding how your actions impact those around you. Make it a habit to regularly ask your team for input — not just in formal reviews. Ask, “How can I be better for you?” You might uncover blind spots or areas where you can grow, and that feedback will make you a stronger, more empathetic leader in the long run.
3. Practice active listening
Listen with intention, not just ears. Make a conscious effort to listen actively, truly understanding where the other person is coming from. This not only shows respect but also builds trust and allows you to better understand your team's needs and perspectives, enhancing your adaptability. Active listening means hearing the unspoken, picking up on emotions and underlying concerns that people may not always voice. That deeper understanding is key to making decisions that resonate with the needs of your team.
4. Embrace diverse perspectives
Great leaders know that the best solutions come from the most diverse ideas. Make it a priority to gather input from stakeholders, regardless of their role or background. Create space for open dialogue where all voices are heard, including the quieter ones. Diverse perspectives fuel creativity and innovation, fostering a culture where everyone feels valued. By intentionally inviting different viewpoints into the conversation, you enhance team collaboration and demonstrate empathy, honouring each person’s unique experience.
5. Prioritise your well-being
Don’t forget to care for yourself as you lead. Maintaining your mental and emotional well-being is crucial for sustaining authenticity. Whether it’s carving out time for exercise, journaling your thoughts or spending quality time with loved ones, self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. When you feel balanced and energised, you’ll be able to show up for your team with the compassion and energy they need from you. After all, if you’re not taking care of yourself, how can you take care of others?
Balancing authenticity with adaptability
Authentic leadership doesn’t end with self-awareness; it also requires navigating the complexities and contradictions that come with the role. This means balancing confidence with humility, maintaining urgency with patience and upholding high standards infused with empathy. Successful leaders are adaptable, knowing when to step forward and assert themselves and when to create space for others.
These “soft skills” aren’t just feel-good attributes — they are essential components of resilient, sustainable leadership. Traits like authenticity and compassion, once seen as optional or secondary, are now recognised as central to effective leadership. Not only do they drive innovation and empower teams, but they also create environments where others feel safe to take risks, grow and contribute meaningfully.
The shift in leadership paradigms
As the business landscape evolves, leaders who cling to rigid, traditional models risk being left behind. Today’s most successful leaders know there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. They adapt to the unique needs of each team, situation and moment. The result is a leadership style that fosters inclusivity, values collaboration and creates space for diverse perspectives.
This shift towards authentic, inclusive leadership is more than a trend — it’s the future. As organizations continue to prioritise diversity, equity and inclusion, authentic leadership will be at the core of creating workplaces that people want to be part of, where talent is respected, supported and inspired. Leaders who embody these qualities demonstrate that, while authenticity may be challenging, its rewards are vast.
Leading the future with authenticity
The path to authentic leadership is both rewarding and demanding, but it remains the most effective approach to navigating today’s fast-changing world. Leaders grounded in empathy, adaptability and inclusion not only inspire trust but also create environments where innovation flourishes and teams thrive.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that authentic leadership is essential. Leaders who champion these principles are not just surviving — they’re redefining success, fostering creativity and shaping a more inclusive, empathetic world. Whether you’re stepping into a leadership role for the first time or are a seasoned leader, remember that your most powerful asset is staying true to yourself. The journey is rarely straightforward, but it is always worth it.
Nishma Aguado - Head of EMEA Talent Advisory, Randstad
Nishma Aguado is a globally recognized leader in strategic talent advisory, with a wealth of experience and a proven track record of leading large-scale workforce solutions and talent transformation initiatives. Her deep expertise spans diverse industries, including financial services, professional services, aerospace, and telecommunications, where she has partnered with top-tier organizations such as Goldman Sachs, PIMCO, Airbus, VMO2, Ericsson and PwC.
Driven by her steadfast belief that talent is the cornerstone of any thriving business, Nishma is unwavering in her dedication to helping clients envision and drive transformative change to unlock the full human potential of organisations. Throughout her career, she has guided clients in implementing creative, innovative strategies, driving both strategic vision and operational success.
Known for her boundless energy, strategic insight, and positive attitude, Nishma is a trusted advisor and a strategic partner who inspires confidence and delivers impactful results in every engagement.
