Be Your Genuine Authentic Self
by Trevor Calton
If you’ve ever felt like you have to act a certain way to get hired or promoted, you’re not alone.
We’ve all been told:
- “Be professional.”
- “Present yourself the right way.”
- “Read the room.”
But somewhere along the way, a lot of people take that to mean:
“Don’t be yourself.”
And that’s where things fall apart.
People Trust What Feels Real
In a sea of noise, sameness, and generic pitches, what stands out most? Authenticity.
The more real you are, the more memorable you become. And not just to employers, but to colleagues, mentors, and decision-makers.
Being Authentic Doesn’t Mean Oversharing
It means alignment.
It means:
- Showing up consistently with your values
- Owning your strengths (and your growth areas)
- Speaking in your actual voice, not jargon or fluff
- Building a reputation rooted in trust, not tactics
Here’s Why This Works
Most hiring decisions aren’t made from checklists. They’re made from emotional memory.
People remember how you made them feel. They remember whether you seemed confident, curious, and grounded, or rehearsed, guarded, and forgettable.
You Don’t Need to Be the Loudest Voice in the Room
You just need to be the most clear and the most real.
When you’re grounded in who you are, you stop trying to chase trends or mimic someone else’s career path.
And that clarity? It’s magnetic.
Try This Simple Test
Look at your LinkedIn bio, resume, or elevator pitch. Does it sound like you? Or does it sound like something you think you’re supposed to say?
If it doesn’t reflect the real you, change it.
Write like a human. Speak like you mean it. Let your real voice lead.
The Bottom Line
Your authenticity is not a liability. It’s your competitive edge.
The right people want to work with someone real. Someone who shows up with integrity, not perfection.
So be that person. And watch what happens.
Want Help Showing Up as Your Best Self, Without Playing a Role?
That’s exactly what Career Building from the Inside Out is built for. To help you get clear, confident, and visible, without faking it or burning out. Explore the course
Want to bring this mindset to your team or audience? Book a workshop or keynote
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