You’ve likely been told to “just be yourself” at work—but that’s not always good advice. What feels authentic to you may harm how others perceive your competence, reliability, or professionalism. Here are five behaviors that feel real but may damage your reputation.
Sharing political beliefs. Saying exactly what you think may feel honest, but it often reads as polarizing. Staying quiet can signal maturity and social awareness.
Venting raw emotions. You might feel better after expressing anger or stress, but others may see you as unstable or unprofessional. Managing emotions earns more respect.
Being radically candid. Blunt honesty can come off as arrogant. Diplomatic feedback builds trust without compromising your point.
Oversharing personal struggles. Being open about insecurities can erode others’ confidence in you. Share selectively to strike a balance between vulnerability and reliability.
Dressing however you want. Expressing yourself through clothing is valid—but ignoring norms can appear disrespectful. Small personal touches within expectations go further.
Tune into tomorrow’s tip for four more authentic behaviors that can backfire.
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