The phrase “bring your whole self to work” is a greeting-card message, not a recipe for professional success.
Here’s the problem: The meaning has become muddled.
During the height of the pandemic, many had no choice — we lived with work, and because of that, we got an authentic view of the lives of leadership and colleagues, whether we wanted to or not.
Because of that shared experience, especially during “unprecedented times,” letting it all hang out became acceptable.
In fact, it was a relief from the past pressures of being buttoned up.
People on LinkedIn were swapping out their profile pictures, giving their professional peers a glimpse into their personal life.
Everyone started sharing anecdotes well beyond what was typically acceptable in the workplace.
Boundaries disappeared, and while that was refreshing for a moment, people forgot who might be watching — your boss, clients, investors or anyone in control of your future progress.
While it’s wonderful and encouraging to be proud of who you are and create a sense of belonging in the office for everyone, the time has passed where people share every single aspect of their personal lives and personality quirks in the office.
Your entire being does not belong at work, nor is it appropriate for work.
Of course, certain parts do but, overwhelmingly, people need to figure out where to draw the line.
Most people are not cut out to be open books; more importantly, oversharing can bring counterproductive results and distract colleagues from the work.
Not only is it unnecessary for employers and co-workers to see every side of you, they don’t want to.
Oversharing or overexposing can create unnecessary judgment, diversions and complications.
Here is when you ask, “But what about company culture?” and argue that bringing your whole self to work drives collaboration and authentic relationships.
The thing is, you can cultivate genuine relationships without sharing every single thought that crosses your mind.
Adam Neumann, the founder of WeWork, is an excellent example of how bringing your whole self to work can backfire.
At first, he created a work environment that was the envy of everyone. But very quickly, the all-consuming culture of WeWork became too much to withstand (in addition to a host of other company problems).
Elon Musk is yet another prime example of someone whose whole self — especially on social media (even before owning Twitter) — has always dwarfed the social footprint of his companies.
Of course, there’s no way to separate the two. But even if you don’t run a company, and no matter your level, everything you do and share can affect your company standing.
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Every person has some version of a personal brand, which starts with what makes you, you.
But if you’re not considering how you’re being perceived at work, you are missing a strategic opportunity to shape your narrative and make sure other people see you how you intended.
The more senior you are, the more you have to lose.
For better or worse, leaders are expected to lead all the time. They’re expected to uphold professionalism that the rest of the team counts on. When executives deviate from an assumed pattern of behavior, it can not only confuse others but also change their perception of their leadership capability.
It may seem unfair to say this, but the ugly truth is that once you pull back the curtain, you are exposing a part of yourself that might diminish the level of respect others need to have for you to be successful.
If you share a side to your persona that doesn’t belong in the workplace, you’re opening yourself up to the possibility that this aspect of your character might not be appreciated or warmly accepted by those who only know you peripherally.
The key is to be self-aware enough to know the parts of you that can backfire.
Your strategy should serve your professional goals. Ask yourself if what you say or do supports your growth or greater aspirations.
It’s up to you to establish your own mental filter where you can ask yourself if what you are sharing is to your benefit or detriment.
Being in control of what you share professionally is imperative in real life and online, and can affect your reputation and the perception of who you are.
The best way to know where these boundaries begin and end is to understand that guardrails must first exist.
Awareness of where your positive attributes lie and your weaknesses lurk is essential.
Curating the best version of yourself is how opportunities present themselves, and you get ahead.
You’re not a character on a reality-TV show — you should be in control of your narrative.
The lines are blurred between what’s personal and professional. You’re still making an impression on your boss and colleagues when you post online, as much as you are in the office.
What do you want to be known for? It’s your job to shape that message and make sure you’re communicating it effectively.
When you think about the person you are at work, consider what aspects of your persona will motivate, inspire, build, partner, innovate and problem-solve. Everything else can stay home.
Aliza Licht is the author of “On Brand: Shape Your Narrative. Share Your Vision. Shift Their Perception” (Union Square & Co.).
