An email from why of the more senior people in my network. Currently in a top role at an important organisation:
A funny thing happened to me today that I thought you would appreciate.
Out of curiosity I accepted an invitation to go and talk to someone about a job. I’ve no intention of leaving [current organisation] but sometimes do accept these meetings.
I spoke to the guy and he noted I had all the skills and experience and so on. He went on to say – rightly I hope – that it’s clear that to me ‘authenticity’ is an important thing and that I’m ‘values’ driven in my leadership.
I thought he was paying me a compliment!
He then said that he felt that these could be challenging traits when working in senior role in a publicly listed company.
So apparently what we’re looking for in our corporations is inauthentic leaders with no core values…
Dear oh dear.
Man.
I really don’t know what to say. Is it any wonder?
Will McInnes 