What It Really Means to Be Authentic (and How to Know If You Are)

We all say we want to be authentic. What does that even mean, though? We seem to think it means “likable” and “down to earth”—which is why we want to be perceived that way. But in fact, authenticity isn’t necessarily good or bad; it’s consistent. It’s real.

You can be authentically warm and funny.

And you could also be an authentic jerk.

Authenticity is like a glass wall; in order for it to work in your favor, you better like what’s on the other side.

A lot of the work I do these days is helping people shape their brand positioning and presence via the talks they give. Because one of the most powerful ways to show who you really are and what you stand for is to speak from the stage.

Far too many people see speaking as a way to transmit information, to educate or inform an audience.

While that may be helpful, it stops short of the WOW factor. The kind that puts great speakers in such high demand.

Yes, it requires authenticity. And authenticity requires a degree of risk (and it almost always pays off).

But here’s the thing: authenticity isn’t something you pursue directly (“I’m going to be authentic today”). It’s the effect of how aligned you, your message, and manner are. If something is “off,” everyone knows it.

In other words, if you “try” to be authentic, then you’re not really authentic, are you? And if you’re one way on stage and another way in person, then that’s not authentic, either, right? Because there’s an inconsistency there. Authenticity is above all consistent—and real.

The reason someone comes off as inauthentic is because either they’re not comfortable with what they’re saying, or they’re trying really hard to impress you.

If you’ve ever watched a speaker (or really, anyone) put on airs, or say or do things to construct a more appealing image of themselves, then you know what inauthentic is. It’s a disconnect between speaker and message, and between speaker and audience.

Authenticity closes that gap. And it’s risky because in being that way, you show who you are, not who you wish you were.

And it’s worth doing, every time.

So what about you? Do you want to speak in a more powerful, authentic way but aren’t sure how?

Maybe you feel busy or unfocused and not sure how to start.

Maybe you’re craving feedback, but really haven’t a clue as to how to get what you need.

What if you could spend two full days focused on your message — and leave with a clear plan for your stand-out signature talk?

That would be amazing, right?

What I’ve found is that nothing distills a thought leadership platform like a talk—it’s got a time limit, urgency, and must be potent to work. THAT is what we’ll be creating during this program.

I would love, love, love to see you in Boston and be part of the extraordinary team guiding you and cheering you on as you dig into your authentic, TED-worthy talk.