What It Really Means to Be Authentic at Work (And 3 Surprisingly Simple Ways to Do It)
- Erin Hatzikostas
- Jun 12
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 16
Let’s cut the corporate fluff—what does authenticity in the workplace actually look like?
No, it’s not showing up in pajama pants and emotionally unloading on your team. And it’s definitely not that weird trend of writing your LinkedIn bio in third person like you’re narrating a nature documentary.
Authenticity at work is powerful—but only when done right. It’s not about being your whole “poopy self” (we’re not here for chaos). It’s about revealing the real you when people least expect it, in the service of others. That’s the magic.
Authenticity Isn’t About You (Wait, What?)
Here’s the truth bomb: authenticity in the workplace isn’t about being yourself 100% of the time. It’s about being human on purpose. It’s a strategic choice to show your quirks, tell the truth, or go off-script because it helps others feel more connected, comfortable, or inspired.
Authenticity, at its root—“authentikos” in Greek—means three things:
🟢 Genuine
🟢 Original
🟢 Authoritative
Being authentic is like being part yourself, part badass. It’s like if Joe Exotic and Kamala Harris had a baby..
Why Authenticity at Work Is a Strategy, Not a Mood
Being your authentic self at work is more than a vibe. It’s your differentiator. When everyone else is blending in with buzzwords and beige behavior, you show up real—and that stands out.
Why does it matter?
It builds trust: People connect with humans, not robots.
It boosts confidence: When you lead with authenticity, others follow.
It sets you apart: In a sea of sameness, your truth is your brand.
This is the heart of authentic leadership—showing up human and inviting others to do the same.
3 Quick Ways to Be More Authentic at Work (Starting Today)
Now, let’s make it practical. Here are three no-BS ways to bring more authenticity in the workplace—and actually make it work for you.
1. Change Your Out-of-Office Message
That’s right. Ditch the robotic “I will return your email as soon as possible blah blah blah.” What a missed opportunity.
Try something human, like:
“I’m away at a softball tournament with my daughter this weekend. I’ll reply once I’ve left the cole bleachers and returned to my warm office.”
Result? People smile. They remember you. They feel connected.
2. Rewrite Your LinkedIn Profile (Like a Real Person)
If your LinkedIn says:
“Experienced leader of matrixed organizations with a proven track record of dynamic synergy...”
Delete it. Burn it. Bury it in the backyard.
Instead, write in first person. Share a quirky strength. Tell a story. Talk like you’re reconnecting with an old college friend after one glass of wine. That’s where the magic is.
3. Tell a Story in Your Next Meeting
Whether you’re leading a team, pitching to a client, or giving a boring update, start with a story. It doesn’t have to be epic—it just needs to be real. A metaphor. A personal lesson. A quick “this one time…” anecdote.
Why? Because stories are remembered 22 times more than facts and figures. Yes, 22x. That’s not a typo.
Stories build trust. They stop multitasking in its tracks. And they anchor your message in something real.
You Can Be Authentic at Work—But It Takes Intention
Being authentic at work isn’t an excuse to overshare. It’s not a license to be lazy. It’s a choice. A tool. A tactic that makes you relatable, trustworthy, and effective.
And yes, it takes work. But that’s what makes it powerful.
So, if you’re wondering whether you can bring your authentic self to work and still be taken seriously—heck yes, you can. You just need to do it on purpose and in service of others.
That’s where authentic leadership begins.
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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.
