My general policy is don’t cry at work. Crying does not help you move up. And it most often negatively impacts how others think of you. As a woman, I’m especially aware of the stereotype that is easily assigned to women for being emotional. I don’t need to encourage this stereotype. In addition, if you’re young, crying at work comes across as immature and inexperienced.
That said, I’ve outlined 3 exceptions to my ‘don’t cry at work’ policy.
- Something horribly sad has happened. Maybe someone in your life is sick or has passed away. It is understandable that this can spill into your work life.
- Something someone said or did deeply offended you. I mean deeply offended you. Use this one sparingly.
- You are moved by something beautiful or sad—maybe you’re changing departments and you’re sad to leave your old colleagues, or maybe you’re so moved by the excellent work that your team has done. In this case, crying in front of your team, on very select occasions, can invite them to see your human side. You’re not just a boss, you’re a human with emotions and things affect you.
Now that I’ve given you permission to cry on a select few occasions, below are 3 tips on how to handle yourself if you find yourself having a cry at work.
- Go to the bathroom. Collect yourself. Clean up your face.
- Take a walk. Go on a route in which you are unlikely to find a colleague.
- Treat yourself to a cappuccino and your entire lunch break. Do something totally mind numbing during this break like schmoozing in a fancy store, or reading a magazine.
How do you approach tears at work? Share with us in the comments below.