It’s All About Perception

Finding out how others perceive you or your work differs from your viewpoint can be unsettling. You might think you are “rocking it,” while others might not quickly believe the same.

While it may be challenging to accept, understanding others’ perspectives can present growth and professional development opportunities. 

Here are some steps you can take to address a perception of your work:

Sleep on It

Take time to reflect on the feedback you receive. Initially acknowledge your response and then try to step back and evaluate the input objectively as if it pertained to someone else. 

Consider what actions you would take if even a tiny portion of the feedback was valid and how much effort you are willing to invest in making changes.

Listen

Engage in listening by seeking input from trusted colleagues. Communicate your commitment to improvement and request feedback. 

Keep it straightforward with questions like these:

  • What do I excel at? 
  • What should I continue doing? 
  • Where can I enhance my performance? 
  • What behaviors should I avoid? 

The objective is to listen without judgment and take notes without reacting or offering comments.

Be Honest

Address any misunderstandings or inappropriate behavior openly and honestly.

Expressing regret for any miscommunications or mistakes you may have made can greatly influence how others see you, as long as you commit to not making the errors again in the future.

Help Is Given to Those Who Ask for It

Reach out for assistance. Talk to your colleagues, manager, and people who have known or been around longer than you. Utilize your company’s resources for guidance on enhancing the skills you aim to work on and monitor your advancements with your supervisor as time passes.

Conclusion

Navigating the complexities of perception in the workplace requires a multifaceted approach. It involves a willingness to confront and digest feedback, a commitment to active listening, and an openness to seeking help and engaging in self-improvement. 

By taking these steps, you can transform challenges into opportunities for growth, enhance professional relationships, and ultimately align your self-perception with how others view them. 

The journey towards understanding and managing perceptions is about adjusting your actions and fostering an environment of mutual respect and continuous development. Embrace this, and you’ll pave the way for a more fulfilling and impactful career.