We’re often encouraged nowadays to ‘bring your whole self’ to work. Not to put up barriers. To be the real you. To express our true opinions, feelings and beliefs. In other words, to be authentic.
The theory goes that being authentic vs fake will result in a more inclusive, more open and energised workplace. If people are being their true selves in the workplace, they should feel happier, less stressed and therefore perform better.
It sounds straightforward, but it’s tricky to get right.
Let’s start with a definition.
Being authentic is about reducing the disconnect between what you think and feel and the way you act. It’s about being open and truthful.
However, there are several watch-outs.
Watch out 1: Destabilising Others
Simply voicing your opinions with no consequence of the impact on others can be upsetting. It may be your ‘authentic’ view, but it can be damaging. Others may not share your opinions or else view the world differently.
Watch out 2: Oversharing
Being open is great, but sharing your inner turmoil or vulnerabilities with people you don’t know very well or in the wrong setting can be embarrassing or disconcerting. People could question your competence or ability. Or think you’re a bit weird.
Watch out 3: Selfishness
Having no concern over the consequences of your behaviour can come across as arrogant. For example, your choice of language may be your authentic way of self-expression, but it may be perceived as offensive by others, or else misunderstood. Simply saying, ‘well, this is the real me’, will reinforce this perception.
So how do we handle this? How do you manage your authenticity in the workspace, whilst still being your true self?
Here are a few suggestions.
1 Only show your authentic self once you’ve proved your credibility
There is evidence that showing vulnerability makes you more relatable. It’s known as the pratfall effect. Being open about your mistakes will make people like you. It’s a technique sometimes used when giving presentations to create empathy with the audience.
However, people are more accepting of vulnerable behaviour once you’ve proved yourself. Demonstrate you perform well, first. That you’re on top of your job. Show that you’re a loyal, trusted colleague before you let your facade slip.
The same applies to non-conformist behaviour. By all means, act in a way that may be viewed as rebellious or quirky if it expresses your authentic self. However, earn the right to do so first.
2 Adapt your authenticity
We all have different selves. The way we behave is very situation-specific. Our behaviour with grandparents, our old friends, our life partner is very different. The setting has a big impact too. When we’re at a football match or at the opera, we behave very differently,
The same applies to work. Be sensitive to the situation you find yourself in. Whether you’re in a project team meeting, a one-on-one session, or a presentation, adapt your behaviour appropriately. You can still be your authentic self. Just make sure you bring the most appropriate version of yourself to the situation.
3 Sometimes don’t be your true self
Some people choose to keep their work lives and their personal lives separate. We all have the right to privacy. If you’re an introvert, or simply don’t feel like sharing your views on sensitive topics that’s ok too. Don’t feel the pressure to ‘reveal all’ to everyone. Holding something back and simply getting on with your job is perfectly ok too.
In Summary
Being authentic at work is important and liberating. No one wants to spend their work-life pretending they’re someone they’re not or trying to fit other people’s expectations. But it’s hard to get right. Before you go full out ‘you’, think twice. Pick your moments. Beware of the workplace culture and the impact you’re having. Be the rebel, only once you’ve proved yourself. Display vulnerability when it’s appropriate. Show the best bits of you, not the unfiltered bits. And remember - don’t feel pressured into over-sharing. Only reveal parts of yourself that you feel comfortable with. Choose how authentic you want to be.