It’s no secret that we spend so much of our lives at work. Therefore, we all want to have relationships in the workplace that are rich and meaningful.
However, building genuine relationships at work can have positive flow-on effects on your career as well. That’s why authenticity at work is so important.
So why is authenticity at work important, and how can you be more authentic at work?
Why is it important to be authentic at work?
The benefits of workplace authenticity extend beyond building meaningful relationships.
Being authentic at work can help you build the trust of others. Earning your colleagues’ trust can help minimise workplace conflicts. It also means when challenges arise you have someone to turn to. Being authentic can also help you to build a professional network. By doing so, it can increase your chances of getting a promotion.
How to be your authentic self at work
Stay present and engaged
When communicating with others in the workplace, be fully present in the conversation. Listen attentively when others are speaking. Asking follow-up questions or nodding your head in agreement is a good way to show engagement.
If a colleague shares with you a personal interest, consider asking them about this during a later conversation to build rapport and connection.
Maintain integrity
Above all else, say what you mean and mean what you say. If you say that you are going to do something, make sure you follow through.
Always remember workplace relationships should be built on building a genuine connection with the other person, not what you can get out of them.
Start small
Many people may feel uncomfortable revealing personal details to their colleagues. Start by revealing basic details about your life. Opening up to others in a measured way will encourage them to do the same, helping you to build stronger relationships.
Before sharing major personal news with a colleague, build up a relationship with them. Always remember to set boundaries; there are some things that are best kept private.
If you are going to start a deeply personal conversation with someone, check in with them to make sure it is a topic that they are happy to discuss.
Be honest
Always try to be honest in your interactions with others. If you don’t feel comfortable discussing a personal topic at work, say so.
However, honesty at work is not the same as unfiltered expression. When you share your opinion on a topic, you should always be mindful of the perspective of others. Remember to always consider the impact what you say will have on others.
Ask for honest feedback
Just as you are honest with others, encourage them to be honest with you too.
Show appreciation
When someone assists you with a task, show them your appreciation.
Be mindful of context
If someone has just emerged from a stressful meeting or is working on a project with a tight deadline, it is probably not the time to share a personal story with them.
Remember, some information may be appropriate to share one-on-one but less so in a group context.
When making jokes in the workplace, consider whether others may consider them inappropriate or poorly timed.
Being yourself at work will go a long way to helping you achieve your career goals.
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Article References
Indeed (17 April 2024) ‘14 Ways to Be Your Authentic Self in the Workplace’, Indeed, accessed 25 February 2025.
Miller-Perkins, K (25 March 2024) ‘Authenticity At Work: How To Balance Transparency With Professionalism’, Forbes, accessed 25 February 2025.