In the workplace, people’s perceptions of you can greatly impact your career trajectory. It’s not uncommon to feel like others may be judging you unfairly, whether it’s based on your background, communication style, or even just the way you carry yourself. However, while it’s not your fault that people may form certain perceptions of you, it is your problem to address and correct those perceptions.
Perceptions are formed by a variety of factors, including our own biases and experiences. For example, if someone has had negative experiences with individuals who share similar characteristics with you, they may unconsciously perceive you in a negative light. Additionally, communication styles can greatly impact how others perceive us. For instance, if you struggle with being assertive, some may perceive you as weak or indecisive. If you are passionate, some may perceive you as aggressive or unapproachable.
While it may be tempting to place blame on others for their perceptions of us, it’s important to recognize that we have the power to change those perceptions. This begins with being aware of how we come across to others and actively working to improve our communication style and behavior. It’s essential to your growth and reputation to listen to feedback from colleagues and be willing to make changes based on that feedback. If you aren’t getting feedback, ask! You can even send out an anonymous survey to get constructive criticism. This is sometimes hard to receive, and you may not agree with the feedback provided. It’s okay! That is natural. It gets easier the more you do it, I promise!
In addition, it’s important to take control of the narrative about yourself. This means being intentional about how you present yourself in the workplace. This could include your communication style, body language, and willingness to be a team player. By taking these steps, you can help to shift the way that others perceive you.
However, it’s important to note that changing perceptions is not always easy, especially if biases are deeply ingrained. In some cases, it may be necessary to seek the assistance of a mentor or coach who can help you develop strategies for effectively addressing these perceptions. Additionally, it’s important to recognize that changing perceptions may take time and patience.
In conclusion, while it may not be your fault that others perceive you in a certain way, it is your problem to address and correct those perceptions. By being aware of how we come across to others, actively working to improve our communication style and behavior, asking for candid feedback, and taking control of the narrative about ourselves, we can shift the way that others perceive us and ultimately succeed in the workplace.
A Workplace Playbook 
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