In a virtual work environment where Gen Z’s influence is increasing, fostering authenticity has become more challenging but essential. Craig Goodliffe, CEO & Founder of Cyberbacker, emphasizes the importance of leaders being intentional about bringing their authentic selves to the virtual workplace. Goodliffe believes that effective leadership in virtual teams requires modeling and encouraging authenticity.
Creating a culture of authenticity in the workplace can lead to improved communication, loyalty, reduced stress, and increased productivity. When employees feel valued for their unique perspectives and contributions, they are more likely to engage openly and honestly. This can foster innovation and drive better connections between colleagues and supervisors, leading to higher trust, respect, and ultimately, better retention rates.
Balancing flexibility and productivity is a top challenge for businesses that support remote work options. Goodliffe suggests that embracing authenticity in remote work environments can bring a variety of benefits, inspiring businesses to consider it as part of their remote work empowerment strategies. Encouraging employees to make mistakes, promoting open communication, and enforcing transparency are key steps in fostering authenticity in virtual work settings.
Allowing employees to make mistakes and acknowledging them as part of growth can empower employees to pursue their aspirations and take on stretch assignments. Encouraging open communication is crucial, especially in a virtual work setting where in-person interactions are limited. Defining and enforcing a communications standard, identifying the optimal platforms for different types of communication, and prioritizing transparency are important elements in fostering authenticity.
Transparency is one of the most important qualities for leaders to model when trying to amplify authenticity in their organizations. By being transparent in communication, leaders can build a workplace where mistakes are understood to be part of the process, fostering trust and respect among colleagues. Embracing authenticity in a virtual work environment can lead to greater efficiency, flexibility, and productivity, ultimately benefiting the business as a whole.
