(CNN) — If the comedian George Burns were alive today to witness the current state of politics, he might say, “Authenticity is the key to winning elections. And if you can fake that, you’ve got it made.”
In the workplace, the cliché has become, “bring your real self to work.” For politicians, the imperative equivalent is “bring your authentic self to the campaign trail — honesty is optional.”
It doesn’t matter whether you’re a political candidate or a breakfast cereal brand, everyone today is on a desperate quest to prove they’re authentic. Perceived authenticity in politics has in many cases usurped qualifications and honesty.
Editor’s Note: Juliana Silva is a strategic communications adviser at Clarity Media Group, a global communications coaching firm based in New York City. Bill McGowan is the Founder & CEO of Clarity Media Group. He is the author of “Pitch Perfect: How to Say it Right the First Time, Every Time.” Follow him on Twitter @BillMcGowan22. The views expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author. View more opinion articles on CNN.
View the complete November 4 commentary by Juliana Silva and Bill McGowan on the CNN website here.