As an individual, it’s crucial that we feel guided, valued, and inspired by those who lead us.

These qualities can often be hard to find, but when they do exist, they transform any work environment into a place of growth and development.

Authentic and confident leaders are those who know how to inspire, motivate, and respect their team members, all the while maintaining a sense of humility and authenticity.

According to psychology, these leaders exhibit certain subtle behaviours that may not always be apparent but significantly impact the way they lead.

These behaviours are not just about giving orders but about building relationships, encouraging innovation, and creating an environment where every team member feels they belong.

In this article, we’ll explore these behaviors in depth. So stay tuned if you’re keen on understanding what makes a truly great leader.

1) They empower

Empowerment isn’t always as overt as handing over the reins of a project. Sometimes, it’s more subtle and happens gradually over time.

Often, when it happens, you might not even realize it until you find yourself making crucial decisions, taking on responsibilities, and leading initiatives with confidence.

You might notice your leader always has a way of making you feel capable. Maybe they delegate tasks that align with your skills or encourage you to step up in areas where you have potential.

In other instances, they might create opportunities for you to shine, such as assigning you a challenging task or endorsing your ideas in a meeting.

Maybe they provide constructive feedback that helps you grow or give you the support you need to navigate difficult situations.

Their goal isn’t just to lead but to create more leaders, fostering an environment of growth and continual learning.

2) They practice active listening

Active listening isn’t just about hearing words; it’s about understanding the complete message being communicated. It’s a skill that authentic leaders master over time.

You might notice that your leader doesn’t just listen to respond. Instead, they listen to understand. They give you their undivided attention, maintain eye contact, and respond appropriately to your concerns or suggestions.

They don’t interrupt or dismiss your ideas but rather encourage open communication and value your input. They understand that every team member brings a unique perspective that can contribute to the overall success of the team.

In doing so, they create an environment where everyone feels heard and respected, fostering trust and promoting strong team collaboration.

3) They admit their mistakes

It might seem strange to think that a confident leader would readily admit their mistakes. After all, isn’t leadership about always knowing what to do and making the right decisions?

You might notice, though, that your leader doesn’t shy away from acknowledging when they’ve made a misstep. They don’t make excuses or blame others but take responsibility for their actions.

Rather than seeing mistakes as failures, they view them as learning opportunities. They understand that admitting a mistake shows their human side and sets an example for the team, fostering a culture where it’s safe to take risks and make mistakes.

In this way, they create a transparent and supportive environment where growth and innovation can thrive.

4) They show vulnerability

Vulnerability is often seen as a weakness, but in the realm of authentic leadership, it’s a strength.

You might notice that your leader doesn’t always have a tough exterior. There are moments when they let their guard down and share their doubts, fears, or challenges.

They don’t pretend to be perfect or act like they have all the answers. Instead, they open up about their struggles and how they’ve overcome them.

By showing vulnerability, they humanize themselves and make it easier for team members to relate to them. It builds trust, encourages open communication, and strengthens the bond within the team.

It’s a reminder that everyone, including the leader, is on a continuous journey of growth and learning.

5) They show empathy

Empathy isn’t just about understanding someone else’s feelings; it’s about being sensitive to their experiences and perspectives.

You might notice that your leader doesn’t dismiss your struggles. Instead, they take the time to understand the challenges you’re facing, and they offer support and guidance.

They don’t view people as mere resources or tools for achieving goals. Instead, they see each team member as a unique individual with their own strengths, weaknesses, and personal circumstances.

By demonstrating empathy, they foster a compassionate work environment where everyone feels valued and understood. This not only boosts morale but also nurtures a team that is more cohesive and committed.

6) They maintain balance

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance isn’t just about setting boundaries; it’s about understanding the importance of rest and rejuvenation.

You might notice that your leader often emphasizes the value of taking time off. They don’t glorify overworking or expect you to be available around-the-clock.

They understand that everyone has a life outside of work. They respect your personal time and encourage you to take care of your physical and mental health.

By promoting a balanced lifestyle, they set a relatable example for their team. This approach not only reduces burnout but also leads to a more productive and satisfied team.

7) They have a sense of humor

Having a sense of humor isn’t just about cracking jokes; it’s about creating a positive and enjoyable work environment.

You might notice your leader doesn’t take things too seriously all the time. They know when to lighten the mood and make work fun.

They understand that laughter can be a great stress reliever and team bonding tool. They aren’t afraid to laugh at themselves or share a funny story to brighten everyone’s day.

By embracing humor, they create a light-hearted atmosphere that makes work more enjoyable and fosters stronger team connections. After all, a team that laughs together, stays together!

8) They set high expectations

Setting high expectations isn’t about being demanding or unreasonably tough; it’s about believing in the potential of each team member.

You might notice that your leader doesn’t settle for mediocrity. They consistently challenge you and the team to achieve more and perform better.

They understand that growth happens outside the comfort zone. They push for excellence, not to be harsh, but because they truly believe in your abilities.

By setting high expectations, they stimulate personal development and drive the team towards success. It’s their way of saying, “I believe in you, and I know you can do this.”

9) They lead by example

Leading by example isn’t just about preaching; it’s about practicing what you preach.

This is perhaps the most important behavior you’ll notice in a confident and authentic leader. They don’t just tell you what to do, they show you how it’s done.

They embody the values, work ethic, and principles they expect from their team. They are consistent in their actions, setting the tone for the entire team.

By leading by example, they earn respect and inspire their team to follow suit. It’s not just about being a leader in title, but a leader in action. This is the subtle yet powerful behavior that truly defines an authentic leader.

Wrapping up

If you’ve been fortunate enough to work with a leader who exhibits these traits, you know how impactful their subtle behaviors can be on a team’s morale, productivity, and overall culture.

Remember, as renowned psychologist Dr. Robert Hogan once said, “The secret of successful leadership lies not in being the smartest person in the room or the one who talks the most. It’s about understanding people and knowing what they need to succeed.”

Being under the guidance of an authentic leader is not about being constantly praised or receiving undue privileges. It’s about feeling valued, challenged, inspired, and believed in.

But what’s more, these behaviors are not exclusive to leaders. They are qualities that each one of us can cultivate in our own personal and professional lives to foster healthier relationships and more fulfilling interactions.

So as we close this article, take a moment to reflect: Are you experiencing these behaviors in your current leadership? Or better yet, are you exhibiting these behaviors as a leader yourself?

This article isn’t meant to evaluate your boss or co-workers. Rather, it serves as a guide to understanding the essence of authentic leadership and its impact on team dynamics and personal growth.

After all, true leadership isn’t about titles or hierarchy. It’s about influence, inspiration, and making a difference in the lives of others.