SW Maxim #4: Be Authentic
July 25, 2020Business people – and especially marketing types – like to throw around buzzwords like “positivity” and “authenticity.” However, authenticity is more than just a popular notion. One of the Savvy Words Maxims (#4) is Be Authentic. What does it mean and why is it important in business – and in life?
Definition of Authentic
The dictionary defines authenticity as genuineness and originality. Synonyms include credibility, reliability, bona fide, and truthful. I think of being authentic as being true to yourself and your brand.
Julie Brown is a perfect example of this. Everything about her brand and new book This Shit Works: A No-nonsense Guide to Networking Your Way to More Friends, More Adventures and More Success reflects her voice and personality – a little larger than life!
Importance of Being Authentic
As I’ve written before, people like to work with those they know, like and trust. Mostly people do not like to work with or be around people they deem to be “as fake AF,” as Julie Brown would say. In his Psychology Today article, Stephen Joseph, PhD, lays out the 7 Qualities of Truly Authentic People. Here is his list:
- Have realistic perceptions of reality.
- Are accepting of themselves and of other people.
- Are thoughtful.
- Have a non-hostile sense of humor.
- Are able to express their emotions freely and clearly.
- Are open to learning from their mistakes.
- Understand their motivations.
So what does it mean for your brand? Just what this image illustrates – you are thoughtful about your vision and the value you bring to your customers. Your brand clearly differentiates you from your competitors and colleagues. Your brand captures your voice and personality. Finally, you demonstrate a commitment to what you’re doing that defines authenticity.
Law of Attraction
I believe in the law of attraction; like-minded people will recognize your values, your authenticity, your creativity, and want to work with you, make friends with you, be around you. Dishonesty, hostility and behaving like a fraud, might get you short term gains but will lead to long-term pain. As Shakespeare said, “To thine own self be true.”