DAVE ALEXANDER CENTER FOR SOCIAL CAPITAL

Working in remote villages in Mozambique, Don Larson, founder and CEO of Sunshine Nut Company, has found one thing is universal around the world: “No matter where people live or how much they have, they want to be treated with dignity, honesty and fairness,” he says. “Authenticity isn’t just about words — it’s about showing up with genuine intent and consistency in how we engage with others.” Engaging with others as equals changes the tenor of every business interaction, according to Larson, who explains, “[T]heir entire demeanor shifts — barriers dissolve and real collaboration begins.” Read his perspective in “Authenticity Rules: Business Leaders’ Tips on How to Be Real – and Why.”