If I were to ask you to tell me the opposite of authentic, you would probably say "fake" or "phoney". People who go through their work lives 'faking it', pretending to be something they are not, will sooner or later get found out. When they do, they will find leading really difficult, as people don't want to follow someone who is fake or phoney.

If you wish to assess your level of authenticity (and are brave), do the following authenticity audit that is part of the Becoming Better Leaders Program. Give each of the 12 statements a score depending on how often your behaviour matches them. The possible responses are 1 (always), 2 (mostly), 3 (in between), 4 (sometimes) 5 (never). After, add your score to see how you fared.

1. I tell the truth.

2. I am clear about my values.

3. I have difficult conversations without delay.

4. I am consistent in my dealings with people.

5. I lead by example.

6. There is alignment between what I say and do.

7. When I know I need to act, I act without delay.

8. I do what I say I will do.

9. I can be trusted.

10. I know myself.

11. I'm the same on the inside as I appear on the outside.

12. I say what I mean and mean what I say.

A score of 12-24 means that you have replied either always or mostly to all 12. This indicates a high level of authenticity - well done, keep it up. A score of 25-36 means you are going well, but can improve. A score between 36 and 48 means you have plenty of work to do. Scoring more than 48 indicates an urgent need for action to improve. Your lack of authenticity is likely holding you back in leadership. The good news is, there is plenty you can do to improve.

Greg Mowbray is The Better Leadership Guy. He is a leadership speaker, author and consultant. Email him at greg@gregmowbray.com