“Desperate to Impress at Work, Man’s Shocking Deception Sends His Wife into a Panic!”
Image credits: Christina Morillo (not the actual image)
Some employees feel like they have to pretend to fit in with the rest of their team
Such toxic environments at work can make some employees feel like they have to pretend to fit in with the rest of their team. In fact, almost one in five workers in the UK puts on a false front at the office. Over a fifth believed that they would be more productive if they could be authentically themselves instead of dedicating energy to hiding.
Data shows that nearly half of people (44%) alter their personalities out of fear of how they’ll be perceived. 29% of LGBTQ+ employees worry about what others will think if they are their true selves at their jobs.
To embrace your true self at work, it’s important to identify whether the problem is external or internal. Often, people feel like outsiders because they overthink how others perceive them, creating a problem in their heads. In such cases, the solution lies in working on their self-esteem rather than adjusting other employee behavior. This can be done by observing how coworkers interact and creating connection opportunities. It’s enough to start small, like joining a conversation before meetings, asking colleagues about their lives, and listening to their responses. Inviting them to lunch is also a great way to feel more comfortable with one another.
On the other hand, if one feels uncomfortable at work and faces hostility or dismissal from colleagues, they may need to address external factors. It might be helpful to check in with a mentor or a friend, who may offer a second opinion, suggestions, or a sympathetic ear. If the situation isn’t getting better, it could be a good idea to reach out to an HR representative.
