Does everyone adopt a more assertive persona at work?

Many individuals feel a need to project a stronger, more decisive image in their professional lives. This often stems from a desire to be taken seriously, influence decisions, or advance their careers. It's a common strategy people employ to meet perceived workplace expectations.

A survey by LinkedIn found that nearly 60% of professionals admit to sometimes 'faking it 'til they make it' in terms of confidence or expertise in their roles.

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<h1>Am I the only one who feels fake adopting a more assertive persona at work?</h1>

Am I the Only One?

Is it normal to want to adopt a more assertive persona at work?

Is It Normal?

Is it weird to adopt a more assertive persona at work?

Is It Weird?

Why do I feel compelled to adopt a more assertive persona at work?

Why Do I?

Real stories from the community

i don't even know if this counts as a confession really it just feels like something i gotta get out you know like a weird pressure behind my eyes all the time i guess maybe i'm just tired or… …

workplace pretense

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I just sit there in those Tuesday morning meetings at the nonprofit, where they’re all talking about bootstraps and “personal responsibility” and the sanctity of... …

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And she's got this fancy real estate gig, selling million-dollar pads to people who probably don't even know what a time clock IS. …

workplace pretense

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it common to feel the need to act differently at work?▾
Yes, many people feel pressure to present a specific version of themselves in professional settings. This can involve adjusting communication styles, demeanor, or even opinions to align with perceived workplace norms or expectations for success.
How do people typically become more assertive in their careers?▾
Individuals often focus on clear communication, advocating for their ideas, and confidently expressing their viewpoints. This can also involve taking on leadership roles or proactively seeking opportunities to demonstrate capabilities.
What are the downsides of pretending to be more assertive?▾
Consistently acting in a way that feels inauthentic can lead to increased stress or a sense of disconnection. It might also make it harder for colleagues to truly understand your contributions or build genuine rapport.
Does everyone feel the need to act more confident at work?▾
A significant number of professionals report feeling compelled to project a higher level of confidence than they genuinely feel in certain work situations. This is often driven by a desire to appear competent and capable to peers and superiors.

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