12. Wearing a Mask
People will exercise their personal judgment over others, particularly their leaders and role models. They will only agree to follow someone and support their vision if they believe them to be honest and authentic. Most senior business leaders find themselves increasingly in the media spotlight. So they need to present themselves authentically to an increasingly large audience.
Showing a degree of humility and vulnerability are important because video technology can bring leaders close enough for others to examine the expressions on their faces. Television debates have changed the dynamics of political elections for many countries. Prominent people often share their opinions on topical matters completely unrelated to their jobs, yet their responses can affect their positions.
Authenticity is something leaders need to build up in times of calm and rely on it in moments of crisis. In the 90’s, the cult of personality was important in business journalism. People considered a CEO as the final arbiter of the fate of their businesses. This has reduced in importance but it still remains valid. The hiring or dismissal of a CEO can still impact a share price profoundly.
Digital media like cellphone cameras record and disseminate every lapse in judgment. Employers will often review Facebook and other feeds from applicants as part of the selection process. It is safe to assume nothing remains a secret for long these days, so behave accordingly.