As the fifth anniversary of the pandemic approaches, Jenni Field, author of Nobody Believes You: How to Become a Credible Leader, warns that the rise of 'authentic leadership' has done more harm than good.
As global uncertainty, misinformation, and scepticism continue to erode trust in leaders across institutions, governments, and businesses of all sizes, Jenni's second book provides a timely roadmap for rebuilding confidence, trust, and influence, making it essential reading for any leader who wants their message to be heard and their impact to last.
With over two decades of global experience, Jenni provides actionable strategies that show how consistency, transparent communication, self-awareness, and a commitment to truth, especially when uncomfortable, can transform a leader’s credibility.
"While researching this book, we asked people, 'Why do you follow a leader?' and the word 'authentic' was mentioned only once," says Jenni. "This reinforced my belief that the COVID legacy of authenticity over credibility needs to change and may explain why so many leaders struggle to be taken seriously."
"While being more human isn't a bad thing, 'authenticity' has become an excuse for poor behaviour, oversharing, and going back on promises, all of which must stop. People don’t want leaders to be authentic; they want them to be genuine and credible, because these kinds of leaders create the safe, inclusive environments that are being craved as we navigate the turbulence of today’s society."
Jenni adds, "Just look at Trump, Musk, and Zuckerberg, whose erratic communication styles, unpredictable approaches, and lack of boundaries might be authentic to who they are as individuals, but when it comes to being believed and credible, that’s a whole different story. We are hardwired for survival, and if the people we are meant to trust are constantly changing their minds, panic sets in and trust is lost."
Adam Davies, Head of Talent Development, Gymshark, comments, “This book provides you with a human lens on how to become the leader people want to represent them, and if you look inward closely enough, it can start the wheels in motion for you to become the credible leader you would believe in.”
Jenni concludes, "People need to trust someone before they feel confident following them, and credibility is the absolute bedrock of this."
"Credible leaders inspire action and passion because people believe in what they say, they know they’re being told the truth, and that their leader will do what they say they’ll do."
Find out more and order a copy of the book here
