They Just Don't Get It!

Authentic leaders are consistent because they're genuinely themselves in every interaction. They don't perform different roles for different audiences. When you ground your decisions in operational truth—the data from Chapter 1—rather than what you think people want to hear, your responses become predictable and trustworthy. Consistency isn't about being perfect—it's about being true to you your principles. When employees know you'll always ask for data before making decisions, they come prepared with facts. When they know you'll always prioritize safety over production, they don't hesitate to stop lines for safety concerns. When they know you'll always follow through on commitments, they trust your promises. The opposite—inconsistent leadership—is cultural poison. Leaders who are supportive one day and critical the next create anxiety. Leaders who preach safety but reward speed above all else confuse priorities. Leaders who promise follow-up but forget create cynicism. If you want to know what someone values, don't listen to what they say. Watch what they do consistently, especially under pressure.

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