I recently had a very interesting discussion with a young professional; she said she was struggling to figure out the balance of acting professional at work and being her true or authentic self. She was wondering if it was possible to be both at the same time.
In a world where professionalism is sometimes misconstrued as striving for perfection or being inauthentic, I feel embracing authenticity in the office is a positive game-changer.
Being genuine at work means showing up as your true self—acknowledging your strengths, accepting your areas of growth, and engaging with others sincerely. It fosters trust, builds stronger connections, and creates an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute.
When all individuals bring their authentic selves to work, collaboration thrives. Authenticity encourages open communication, enabling team members to share ideas without fear of judgment. This openness often leads to innovative solutions and improved team dynamics. Moreover, being authentic reduces the stress associated with maintaining a façade, which can improve mental well-being and productivity.
That said, there is that balance where you need to be sure you are 1) being respectful, and 2) work is still getting done. I mean, that’s why we’re at work, right?! Authenticity doesn’t mean oversharing or disregarding workplace etiquette. It’s about finding the balance between being true to yourself and respecting the professional environment.
Guidelines are the way to accomplish both. POSTED guidelines that are occasionally revisited reinforce that, and also helps create a culture where its continuously encouraged. What is acceptable attire (including when hosting outside clients, or on snow days?) How do we encourage building relationships by sharing without wasting time? Is there a time and place to spitball ideas in pairs, small groups, or with the whole office on how to tackle what’s coming up next for the organization?
One of the best by-products of this is that authenticity also sets the stage for genuine leadership AND encourages leadership! When employees are honest about their challenges and vulnerabilities, they inspire trust and loyalty among their teammates. Employees are more likely to feel valued and motivated when they know their leaders are relatable and empathetic. And in a culture where this is supported, people are more likely to take calculated risks to explore possibilities, grow themselves, and grow the business.
Call to Action
Take a moment to reflect on how you show up at work. Are you being your authentic self? Are there clear guidelines to what’s expected and encouraged? Commit to sharing your ideas, expressing your values, and connecting genuinely with your colleagues. By doing so, you not only elevate your own work experience but also contribute to a more inclusive and inspiring workplace culture. Start small—be curious, listen actively, and let your authenticity shine. The office is better when you’re genuinely you.
