Authenticity is key to effective leadership, yet it's often misunderstood, even by leaders. Many people think authenticity is innate and born with or without it. Authentic leaders transcend traditional self- other awareness. Self and social awareness are two components of awareness (having insight into the behaviours of individuals and groups). Authentic leaders are conscious of their own and others' proclivities.

Authentic leaders can reveal themselves to followers. This supports the premise that an authentic leader is real and trustworthy, which is important to organisational behaviour theory. Authentic leaders benefit the group and themselves. Authentic leaders judge with imperfect understanding of their weaknesses, abilities, and prejudices (i.e. awareness). An authentic leader must be fair and impartial while making decisions in the group's best interest.

Question: The ability to persuade others to work toward common goals is a critical component of leadership, but it is missing from the present conception of true leadership. How can authentic leaders recognise the optimal ways to influence others?

Please include citations next to the paragraph you are using in on and not just at the end.