Workplace Transformation: Unveiling Authenticity: Strategies to Embrace Full Personality at the Office and Prosper
In the realm of professional success, the question that often arises is, "How do I excel at work while staying true to myself?" My response is always straightforward: combine authenticity with professionalism.
At first glance, it might seem counterintuitive that these two principles are intertwined. After all, what does authenticity have to do with getting the job done? However, I believe they are complementary forces that foster trust and respect, building strong relationships and driving success. But how can you put these words into practice?
In this article, I want to break down the concept of bringing your genuine self to work and explore ways to integrate authenticity and professionalism in a balanced manner.
The Power of Authenticity at Work
Authenticity in the workplace can be a complex concept. My authenticity might be perceived as oversharing, while someone else's "keeping it real" could be seen as being gross. But does that really matter when it comes to getting the work done?
The idea of bringing your whole self to work gained traction in the 2010s, as organizations began to prioritize inclusivity and employee engagement. However, breaking down the barriers between work self and non-work self is not a new concept.
From "Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day" to pet-friendly workplaces, the idea of infusing the office with a bit of life from the outside has long been championed by advocates who believe that expressing one's authentic self leads to increased job satisfaction, better performance, and increased commitment.
But not everyone agrees. In late 2024, tech entrepreneur Marc Andreessen cautioned against bringing your full self to work, arguing that doing so could lead to confusion, blurred boundaries, and outright conflict. Meanwhile, psychologist Rebekah Wanic warned that expecting employees to be completely open could jeopardize productivity.
Navigating the Tension Between Private Passions and Professionalism
As someone who loves extreme sports, particularly wingsuit flying, I know there's a temptation to hide your hobbies or interests for fear of how others might perceive you. While wingsuit flying might look risky to outsiders, it's actually all about mastering fear and managing risk. And so, I don't shy away from sharing this passion with my colleagues.
But how do you know when it's appropriate to share personal information with colleagues, especially in a new workplace? The key is to sense the mood and receptiveness of the group you're in. Colleagues in a healthy workplace will help regulate what's acceptable and what grates.
Embracing Authenticity on Your First Day
If you're starting a new job, you might feel torn between showing too much or too little of yourself. My advice is simple: start small. Share selectively and observe how your environment responds. It's a process of trial and adjustment, not an opportunity to drama queen your way through your entire life story.
By practicing emotional intelligence and gauging the moment, you can foster connection without overwhelming or underwhelming.
Authenticity in Leadership: Creating a Culture of Trust and Innovation
For leaders, the balance between authenticity and professionalism is crucial. Workplaces that empower employees to bring their whole selves to work thrive, as team members feel valued and engaged.
To create this culture, leaders must foster mutuality and reciprocity. By sharing appropriately, listening actively, and maintaining consistent respect, leaders can create a space where everyone feels valued. By leading by example and demonstrating vulnerability, leaders can inspire trust and innovation.
In the end, bringing your authentic self to work means being genuine in a way that aligns with your role, team, and organization's culture. By starting small, testing the waters, and adapting, you can build trust and professionalism in a balanced and effective manner.
Anna Jankowska, a proponent of bringing authenticity to the workplace, believes that combining professionalism and authenticity can foster trust and respect, leading to strong relationships and success. However, navigating the concept of authenticity can be complex, as what is perceived as authentic by one person might be seen as oversharing by another. Despite the concerns raised by some, integrating authenticity and professionalism in a balanced manner can lead to increased job satisfaction, better performance, and increased commitment.
In her own professional journey, Anna Jankowska, with her passion for extreme sports, has learned the importance of sharing personal interests with colleagues, even if they might seem risky or unconventional. By sensing the mood and receptiveness of the group, one can share personal information in a way that fosters connection without overwhelming or underwhelming.
In her leadership role, Anna Jankowska emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of trust and innovation by sharing appropriately, listening actively, and maintaining consistent respect. By leading by example and demonstrating vulnerability, leaders can inspire trust and innovation, resulting in a workplace that empowers employees to bring their whole selves to work.
