How To Identify Authentic People

EMEKA OPARAH

As far as I’m concerned, trust is the most fundamental factor in any relationship and a vital attribute of trust is authenticity.

Being authentic means being real, genuine, true and honest. There’s no gainsaying the fact that authenticity and, by implication, trust, are extremely important in building a workplace that is conducive for performance and success.

Identifying authentic people requires paying attention to their words, actions, and how they navigate different situations.

Here are few points to help you recognize authenticity:

1. They Don’t Try Too Hard to Be “Authentic”
True authenticity is effortless—it’s not about making a show of being “real.” People who loudly proclaim how “authentic” they are may actually be performing rather than living authentically. As the saying goes, a tiger does not need to prove its tigritude!

2. They Are Consistent
Their words and actions align over time. Their personality doesn’t change drastically based on who they’re with.

3. They Are Comfortable with Vulnerability
They don’t pretend to know what they don’t. And so they openly admit their mistakes and shortcomings. An authentic person doesn’t pretend to be perfect or put on a façade.

4. They Speak Honestly but with Kindness
They express their opinions and feelings truthfully without being unnecessarily harsh.
With them, what you see is what get. They don’t sugarcoat things to manipulate others or seek approval. They say it as it is!

4. They Don’t Seek Constant Validation
They don’t crave excessive praise or try to impress others for the sake of it. They are confident in their values and don’t need external approval to feel worthy.

5. They Own Their Decisions and Actions
They take responsibility when they make mistakes instead of blaming others. They don’t make excuses or try to shift accountability, especially when things go wrong. And they are ever ready and willing to give due credit to others and celebrate good behaviour.

6. They Are Not Afraid to Stand Alone
They hold firm to their values, even if it means going against the crowd. They don’t compromise their integrity just to fit in and are not afraid to take the straight and narrow path.

7. They Are Emotionally Balanced
They don’t suppress emotions or pretend to be someone they’re not. They process their emotions in a healthy way rather than reacting impulsively.

The workplace is naturally a potpourri of characters-the good, the bad and the ugly. Too many fake people everywhere! One must be particularly cautious not to get involved with the wrong people, without being aware, since you necessarily have to work with such people.

“Scientia potentia est” is Latin for Knowledge is POWER. The ability to recognize people for who they truly are can make a big difference in the way you work, rise and shine in an organization.

By the way, if you’re in the position where you can put inauthentic people in their place, please don’t hesitate to do so!!!