How to balance being genuine and professional.
A tech executive recently confessed on LinkedIn that he bites his nails during Zoom meetings. He’s been biting his nails all his life, he said, and wanted to share his vulnerabilities. He was acting on the notion that “bring your whole self to work” is a praiseworthy principle. The response was mixed. Some people applauded him for his openness, especially fellow nail-biters, others not so much. Either they succumbed to the ick factor, thought the whole thing was gross, or considered his revelation too much information. The executive’s admission raises an important question, “How much of our authentic selves should we bring to professional lives?” and “What is appropriate to share?”
The authenticity paradox in the workplace revolves around the tension between being genuine and maintaining professionalism. Finding a balance where you can be your true self without overstepping boundaries or making others uncomfortable is crucial. While seasoned professionals often develop a sense of what’s appropriate through experience, younger professionals may need specific guidance to navigate this delicate balance effectively.
Research indicates that individuals with high emotional intelligence tend to express themselves authentically while also being mindful of social cues. Authenticity, in this context, involves being truthful while considering the impact of your words and actions on others. It’s not just about expressing yourself but doing so in a manner that aligns with the norms and expectations of the professional environment.
- Integrity and Values
Act in alignment with your integrity and values. Authenticity stems from a consistency between your beliefs and actions. Rather than broadcasting every feeling or opinion, demonstrate your values through your conduct. You will earn respect in the process.
- Respectful Communication
Treat others with respect, acknowledging their perspectives even in disagreement. This demonstrates your authenticity by recognizing shared humanity and fostering positive interactions.
- Relevance in Sharing
When sharing personal information, ensure its relevance to the situation. While a brief personal anecdote can humanize interactions, avoid oversharing or derailing discussions from business objectives.
- Mindful Vulnerability
Show vulnerability strategically to humanize interactions. Briefly sharing relevant personal experiences can build connections but remember to maintain professionalism and stay focused on work-related matters.
- Emotional Regulation
Manage your emotional responses and communication style professionally. Avoid impulsive reactions that may come across as aggressive or unprofessional. Instead, address concerns calmly and offer constructive feedback or solutions.
- Contextual Awareness
Stay mindful of the work environment and cultural norms. Adapt your communication style and level of personal sharing based on the context to ensure it aligns with professional expectations.
By embracing these strategies, you can navigate the authenticity paradox effectively. It’s about being genuine while also respecting boundaries and maintaining professionalism. Your authentic self can shine through in a manner that contributes positively to work dynamics and relationships without compromising on appropriateness or effectiveness. Remember, authenticity doesn’t mean sharing everything–it’s about being true to yourself while considering the impact on others in the workplace.
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