‘Authenticity’ has become a trendy buzzword, but its meaning runs deep. Right off the bat: there’s no such thing as authentic advertising. To be effective, advertising needs extraordinary ideas, strong messages, and a memorable story. Advertising is a one-sided performance aimed at selling or informing – a role-play, nothing more.
Authenticity has nothing to do with role-playing. It’s about being true to oneself – to one’s strengths and weaknesses. Embracing this requires courage, unfiltered openness, and honesty. This applies to individuals as well as teams, companies, or brands. There’s no such thing as being ‘a bit authentic.’ It’s either authentic or it’s not.
Authenticity calls for unvarnished self-reflection. It’s not about playing a role so convincingly that it appears credible to others. Such role-playing not only deceives others but, above all, oneself. And one thing is certain: sooner or later, the curtain falls. The consequences can be costly. Don’t easily risk the trust of others and your credibility.
It’s not about pleasing everyone or trying to please everyone. It’s about truth and truthfulness. Authenticity starts with oneself and requires a deep understanding of who one really is…
‘Actually, I’m quite different;
I just don’t often get the chance.
You’re currently making the acquaintance of someone
whom I know just as little as you.’
Udo Lindenberg feat. Jan Delay
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ExF0E1ppALg
How genuine?
Authenticity is about authenticity – the alignment between fact and representation. “When we have the courage to truly be ourselves, amazing things can happen. Things we can’t even imagine… but it takes some courage,” explains Mike Robbins in the TEDxTalk below.
“When we’re willing to be authentic, it frees us up, and it touches and inspires the people around us. That’s the power of authenticity.”
Mike Robbins
So, authenticity has a direct impact on our interpersonal communication. Those with values should act accordingly. How successfully a team communicates, how leaders lead, and what they exemplify – the success of a company is significantly influenced by authenticity.
Do you prefer to hide your true self, that of your team, or your company’s, or do you have the courage to truly get to know yourself? Seize the opportunity: only what is genuine truly touches, motivates, and inspires in a sustainable way.
Don’t wait for tomorrow, because the future starts today.
With solution-focused methods based on systemic-constructivist didactics, I support leaders, teams, and companies in recognizing, rediscovering, and promoting their full potential. Simply schedule an appointment and learn more about the creative as well as effective methods.
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[ Communication | Human | Brand ]
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gil com | creative identity and beyond
For connecting communication + promoting personal growth, brand authenticity, a motivating corporate culture, and opening up new spaces for creative thinking.
Claudia Gilhofer:
Creative Planner, Communication Psychologist in Training, Systemic Business Coach, Facilitator, Mentor, Sparring Partner, VR Expert (XR-C)
