As employees, it’s easy to believe that we operate under the same objective reality at work. But reality is subjective and based on perception. Each person’s interpretation of facts and data can be entirely different, therefore each individual creates distinct versions of reality.
Often, people are quick to form opinions based on the actions and behaviors of their peers at work. But how does this affect you as an individual? Remarkably, perception has the power to influence decisions, behaviors, actions and even team dynamics. Workplace perception is how others view you, your work and your potential. Understanding and managing workplace perception is vital to your professional success; it’s ensuring that your value and capabilities are accurately recognized and appreciated.
Factors Shaping Workplace Perception
Professional Presence
“Be your best self!” is something that we always are reminded of before an important job interview. We adhere. We achieve success. But does “bringing your best self” only apply to job interviews? Is this the only time that perception matters most? We know that perceptions vary from person-to-person and from time-to-time. So, maintaining a positive professional image is almost mandatory at all times. Your professional presence is your ability to demonstrate respect, confidence and integrity in a manner that is consistent with professional standards and company culture. It’s about being present — physically, mentally and emotionally. It’s a continuous effort that you commit to making by presenting your best self.
Confidence and Communication
How you communicate, put your message across, share your thoughts and get the job done are ways that affect how others perceive your capabilities. Strong communication skills, confident decision-making and a focused work approach depict competence and reliability. In the workplace, since perceptions are quick to form and likely to last, employees who exude confidence in speech and presence are often the favored candidates who are offered leadership roles.
Reliability and Consistency
Are you a reliable and trusted worker? Does your work consistently meet or exceed expectations? Being known as a reliable employee and someone who consistently exhibits good performance helps build a powerful positive image. Over time, these positive attributes become a part of your professional brand. You become the go-to person for all important projects and opportunities.
Managing Your Professional Perception
Conduct Perception Audits
It’s important to know how people perceive you at work. Do they regard you as a professional with an exceptional work ethic? Or are you the pushy, arrogant sort who gets the job done but isn’t seen as a team player? Pause and reflect. Assess how others perceive your work and behavior. Seek feedback from trusted colleagues and supervisors. Identify and fill in any gaps between your intended and actual image to achieve professional growth.
Prioritize Visibility
The market is fierce and competitive. Experience and skills abound. Highlighting your contributions and achievements (without being conceited) helps create a more positive perception of you as a worker. Get out there! Share project updates, volunteer for presentations and participate in cross-functional team activities. Listen, learn, be visible and make your presence felt. A good employee with strong results that go unnoticed is an opportunity lost!
Build Authentic Relationships
Research has shown that healthy work relationships can make employees perform better, remain engaged and stay longer in their organizations. Work on building genuine professional relationships across all levels of the organization. Leverage your connections to seize opportunities to learn more and stretch your skills. By working hard and smart and showing your willingness to go beyond your job description, others are likely to recognize and appreciate your contributions.
The Power of Perception
Perception in the workplace is a powerful force that can propel career progression. You can leverage opportunities, in part, by managing how you are perceived by colleagues and mentors at work. Remember, authenticity is key! Be yourself. Be visible. Humbly highlight your best qualities and share your biggest achievements to grow your professional brand.
At Crosworks, we believe that every individual can do work that moves the organization forward while achieving personal fulfillment. We take pride in empowering people with confidence, clarity and focus to perform their best work and stand out in a crowd. To make sure your professional brand aligns with your aspirations and authentically reflects who you are. Schedule a free, introductory call today, to find out how our professional, certified career coaches can help