What is Authenticity (Really)?: Defining True Self-Expression in the Workplace
- Erin Hatzikostas
- Jun 5
- 3 min read
Have you ever wondered what it really means to embrace authenticity in the workplace? If you’re picturing someone who shares every random thought or wears pajamas to important meetings, think again. Authenticity goes far beyond simply ‘being yourself.’ It’s about strategically expressing your authentic self at work while aligning with professional goals.
The Business Case for Authenticity in the Workplace
Let’s cut to the chase: authenticity isn’t just a feel-good concept—it’s a proven business advantage. When organizations foster authenticity in the workplace, they unlock powerful results like higher trust, better engagement, and increased performance.
Here’s the truth bomb: Authenticity isn’t just about being yourself. It’s about choosing to reveal who you are, especially when it serves and connects with others.
Authenticity builds trust. Trust fuels engagement. Engagement drives results.
So yes, authenticity = money.
Studies from Harvard Business Review show that in high-trust organizations, employees experience:
74% less stress
50% higher productivity
76% more engagement
That’s not fluff. That’s ROI.
What Authentic Leadership Looks Like
Want to cultivate authentic leadership? Start by ditching the masks. True leaders model human behavior—mistakes, quirks, and all—and give others permission to do the same.
I use a framework I call HUMANS:
Humility: Admit mistakes and be vulnerable.
Unexpectedness: Break norms (in a good way).
Modeling: Lead by example.
Adapting: Flex your authentic self for different situations.
Narrating: Use storytelling to inspire and influence.
Sparking: Create platforms for others to shine.
Authentic leadership isn’t about being polished. It’s about being real—and that realness creates trust that supercharges team performance.
Building Trust Through Authentic Behavior
Trust is built not by titles or talent, but by authenticity. One of my favorite examples? A negotiation where I opened with this line:
“Our financials are struggling. And if I can negotiate this deal without a price increase, I’ll have a good shot at becoming the next CEOoooo. And I kinda want to become the next CEOoooo.”
It was bold. It was real. And it worked. That honesty built instant trust and turned a tough conversation into a long-term partnership.
Why Your Authentic Self at Work Is Your Superpower
Your quirks and imperfections aren’t liabilities—they’re your differentiators. Embracing your authentic self at work creates a culture of safety, innovation, and engagement.
For example, I once gave a presentation where I mispronounced words on purpose and made silly faces. The message? It’s okay to be human. It’s okay to be imperfect. And it’s more than okay to have fun.
When leaders model this, they foster teams that take smart risks, share new ideas, and bring their full selves to the table.
Implementing Authenticity in Business: 4 Simple Strategies
Here are some ways to weave authenticity in the workplace into your everyday culture:
Reframe Your Self-Talk: Instead of "I can’t do this like my predecessor," say, "What if I did this differently—authentically?"
Create an Inspiration Platform: Don’t hoard the mic. Share it. Let others tell their stories.
Own Your Mistakes: When you mess up (you will), be the first to call it out. This builds trust.
Tell Your Story: Use personal anecdotes. People don’t remember spreadsheets—they remember stories.
The Real Meaning of Authenticity in the Workplace
Being authentic doesn’t mean being 100% yourself 100% of the time. It means finding the balance between your values and your environment. It means showing up with purpose and humanity.
Your authentic self at work is the key to connection, trust, and impact. It’s not always easy, but it is always worth it.
So, are you ready to lead with authenticity? To embrace your quirks? To share your story?
Because at the end of the day, people may respect authority—but they
follow authenticity.
Now go be someone worth following.
Want to embrace your quirkiness a little more? My first book, "You Do You(ish)" is jam-packed with tips, tricks, and advice on how to take your quirks and make them shine and bring your full-self to the workplace.
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Erin Hatzikostas is an internationally recognized leader on the impact of authenticity in the workplace. Learn more about her keynote speaking, workshops, and other authentic programs here.
