Case: Leading with Authenticity

Leader: Marquis Parker

Topic: Vision, Values, and Culture

Case Challenge

While advancing through his career, Parker realizes he is unable to be himself in the office and starts to see others “win the game” and get promoted even though they are not necessarily doing better work.

Summary

Although Parker does exceptional work he is still not fitting in and “winning” the game. Once he shifts his mindshift and decides that he is “the prize”, he realizes he can be more selective about companies and cultures that allow him to do good work while also being authentic to himself. 

Context

Parker is the first in his family to go to college and although he has degrees from top universities, competitive work experience in prestigious companies, and does exceptional work, he still finds he is not fully accepted in certain corporate cultures in spite of his efforts to dress and act like others. He ultimately determines the importance of authenticity as a priority for his professional life 

Case Design

These leadership cases are designed to be discussed in a group so that divergent viewpoints can be debated. This enables participants to broaden their perspectives and gain insights into the values and instincts that drive decision- making. Each video pauses to allow for discussion at key points in the leader’s presentation. 

Keep in Mind

The cases do not always provide the correct or ideal solution. Rather, they present one person’s experiences and judgment based on the circumstances faced at the time. Some critical facts may also have been unintentionally omitted. 

Facilitation Tips 

To help create a trusting, open atmosphere:

• Establish ground rules for the discussion, such as setting up a safe space.
• Feedback should not be personal but directed at behavior.
• Encourage participants to state and defend his or her opinion.
• Refocus participants by raising broad questions and themes.
• Reassure your group that leadership is an art that can be learned through practice, feedback, and experience.
• In closing, provide a theoretical context for the discussion and takeaway lessons.

Teaching Insight - Leadership Background Content

Developing and managing a high-performing career takes commitment and attention to not only gaining technical expertise and demonstrating strategic thinking, but also finding good cultural fit.  When there is a strong corporate culture, it is important to consider whether or not it is worth the effort to fit or to define success differently.  This case explores factors under a leader’s control that spark questions around professional advancement, career fit, and corporate culture.

Video Segment 1 

Background and Challenge: Parker works to do everything right to advance professionally in corporate America, but struggles personally because he cannot be authentic. 

Discussion Questions:

Ask these questions to the class at large or to particular students.  Encourage everybody to participate by seeking a variety of different opinions.

1. What does he mean when he says he is “not winning the game”?
2. What are the barriers and obstacles Parker must overcome to succeed or “win the game” at traditional companies? 
3. What are Parker’s options and how can he “win the game”?
4. Have you ever experienced a time when you were not able to “win the game”professionally in spite of doing everything right? Please explain.

Video Segment 2 

Decision: Parker shifts his mindshift and decides that he is “the prize”, realizing he can be more selective about companies and cultures that allow him to do good work while also being authentic to himself. 

Discussion Questions:

Ask these questions to the class at large or to particular students.  Encourage everybody to participate by seeking a variety of different opinions.

1. What does he mean when he says that “he is the prize”?
2. How does shifting his mindset help him professionally and personally?
3. What priorities do you have in your career choice and advancement strategy?
4. What obstacles must you overcome to position yourself effectively and feel as though you fit into a corporate culture or team?  

Video Segment 3 

Results: Parker’s professional life and work improves because he is better able to focus on his performance rather than trying to fit into the corporate culture that does not allow him to be authentic to himself.  

Results Discussion Questions:

Ask these questions to the class at large or to individual students.  Encourage everybody to participate by seeking a variety of different opinions.

1. How do you think culture can influence your ability to perform?
2. What conditions help you perform your best as a leader?  
3. Describe how you might be able to shape or influence your organization’s culture as a leader to help others thrive?
4. What does being “authentic” or “comfortable in your own skin” mean to you? Explain.

Lessons Learned:

• Realize what it means to be authentic for yourself
• Make the decision of where you need to go to be yourself by evaluating the company culture, industry culture, and personal fit
• Recognize there are certain things that are not appropriate for any workplace; learn to be yourself within the confines of what is “okay” in your company or organization.
• There is power in being comfortable in your own skin; rather than changing yourself to fit into a place that does not allow you to be yourself, you can focus on performance.

Lessons Learned Discussion Questions:

1. Do you agree with the lessons learned here? (Note: An instructor will need to mention the above lessons learned.)
2. What are some possible ways to evaluate the culture in an organization or an industry to determine if they are a good fit for you?
3. In a world of hybrid or remote work, how can you thrive culturally and build loyalty when it may not be possible to always “be present” or physically with people?

Considerations

The lessons shared by this leader are based on his own experiences. These lessons are not necessarily substantiated by academic research but are shared to spark consideration and insight.