EP6: Why Authenticity is Overrated | Dr. Tomas Chamorro on Identity, Leadership & AI
In this episode, Jason sits down with Dr. Tomas Chamorro, psychologist, author, and Chief Innovation Officer at ManpowerGroup, to explore the provocative themes from his upcoming book Why Authenticity is Overrated. Tomas shares insights from decades of research on leadership, psychology, and human behavior—challenging the popular notion that “being yourself” is always the best advice. From the dark side of authenticity to the impact of AI on human identity and trust, this conversation unpacks what authenticity really means in today’s workplace. Tomas argues that our obligation to others often outweighs our right to self-expression, and that the path to better leadership lies in self-control, perspective-taking, and compromise.
Key Points
- Why Tomas believes authenticity is not always a virtue—and when it can be harmful.
- The difference between self-reported authenticity and reputation-based authenticity.
- How oversharing can dilute authority and even damage careers.
- Why leaders from “out groups” face different challenges when “being themselves” at work.
- How AI blurs the lines between authenticity, trust, and identity.
- Practical takeaways on how to balance self-expression with responsibility to others.
Guest:
Dr. Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic is an international authority in people analytics, talent management, leadership development, and the Human-AI interface. He is the Chief Innovation Officer at ManpowerGroup, co-founder of Deeper Signals and Metaprofiling, and Professor of Business Psychology at both University College London and Columbia University.
He has previously held academic positions at New York University and the London School of Economics, and lectured at Harvard Business School, Stanford Business School, London Business School, Johns Hopkins, IMD, and INSEAD. He also served as CEO at Hogan Assessment Systems. Dr. Chamorro-Premuzic has published 10 books and over 200 scientific papers, making him one of the most prolific social scientists of his generation. He is a frequent contributor to Fast Company, the Guardian, Forbes, and the Harvard Business Review.
His latest book, Don’t Be Yourself: Why Authenticity is Overrated and What to Do Instead, will be released on October 7th—but you can secure your copy now via pre-order: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Be-Yourself-Authenticity-Overrated/dp/1647829836
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Transcript
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