seek clarity rather than authenticity

Reasonable, empathetic leaders often seek authenticity as a marker of their legitimacy and success. They optimize for it (or try to) in their internal communications. This, I think, is an error.

Optimize instead for clarity. This way, even if your word or tone isn’t trusted, you have still deposited and documented the truth. Something true.

Doing this over and over again can earn you a reputation for authenticity. You’re good for your word; what you say matches the facts people have or can get.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t work the other way. Reaching over and over again for authenticity won’t get you clarity. It may even deny you (and your people) clarity instead.

-Eric