I keep seeing talk of being "authentic"; how an advisor to businesses or even just business people in general must be authentic- it certainly seems to be a new buzzword as individuals seek to show what makes them different by copying others!
So with my full sense of irony mode turned way up I thought I would ask ChatGPT what it "thought" an authentic advisor was.
Here is its considered (and authentic) response....
"An authentic business advisor is a professional who provides guidance, support, and expertise to businesses and entrepreneurs in a genuine and trustworthy manner. They offer valuable insights and practical advice based on their experience, knowledge, and understanding of various aspects of business operations, strategy, management, and industry trends.
Authenticity in this context refers to the advisor's commitment to honesty, integrity, and transparency. An authentic business advisor doesn't just provide generic or cookie-cutter advice but tailors their recommendations to the specific needs and goals of the business they are advising. They build relationships based on mutual trust and respect, aiming to foster long-term partnerships that contribute to the success and growth of the businesses they work with.
Key qualities of an authentic business advisor include:
Expertise: They possess a deep understanding of business principles, strategies, and industry dynamics.
Experience: They have a track record of working in various roles within businesses or consulting, which lends credibility to their advice.
Active Listening: They carefully listen to their clients' concerns, goals, and challenges before offering solutions.
Tailored Approach: They customize their advice to the unique circumstances and needs of each business they advise.
Honesty and Transparency: They provide candid feedback, even if it's not what the client wants to hear, and are transparent about potential risks and challenges.
Ethical Behaviour: They adhere to high ethical standards and prioritize the best interests of their clients.
Long-Term Focus: They are invested in the long-term success of the businesses they advise and work to build enduring relationships.
Continuous Learning: They stay updated on the latest industry trends, technologies, and best practices to provide relevant advice.
Problem-Solving Skills: They help businesses navigate complex challenges and provide innovative solutions.
Communication Skills: They convey their advice clearly and effectively, ensuring their clients understand the rationale behind the recommendations.
Empathy: They understand the emotional and personal aspects of running a business and provide emotional support alongside practical advice.
An authentic business advisor can have a significant positive impact on a business by helping it make informed decisions, overcome obstacles, and capitalize on opportunities. When seeking an authentic business advisor, it's important to conduct due diligence, check references, and ensure that their values and approach align with your business's needs and objectives".
So did ChatGPT get it right? Is that what it means to be authentic and if so is it alarming that an attempted differentiator is just what we should be anyway- surely its a given that we act this way, if being authentic is your USP ("USP" does anyone use this outdated concept anymore?) then................................- well you fill in the blanks.