The internet age has blurred the lines between personal and professional lives. We connect with colleagues on social media, share snippets of our weekends on LinkedIn, and use online platforms to build our personal brands. But where do we draw the line? Can oversharing, sometimes a trauma response, coexist with professionalism?
The answer, like most things online, is nuanced.
Oversharing and the Trauma Response
For some, oversharing online stems from a deeper place. People who have experienced trauma may use social media as a coping mechanism, seeking validation or connection. While this can be a positive step towards healing, it's important to be mindful of potential consequences in a professional setting.
The Perils of Oversharing
Oversharing personal details in a professional context can have drawbacks:
Loss of Credibility: Oversharing can make you come across as unprofessional or lacking in judgment.
Blurred Boundaries: It can create an uncomfortable closeness with colleagues, making it difficult to maintain professional boundaries.
Negative Perception: Oversharing negativity can create a perception of someone who is unreliable or struggles to manage stress.
There’s also a difference between sharing your story as you’re going through it in real time versus after the fact, when you’ve learned the lesson and are further removed.
Strategic Authenticity: Finding the Middle Ground
So how do we be authentic without overstepping professional boundaries? Here are some tips:
Know Your Audience: Tailor your online presence to the platform and your audience. A lighthearted anecdote might work on LinkedIn, but a more formal tone may be better for a professional website.
Content is King (or Queen): Focus on sharing content that showcases your expertise and interests relevant to your professional brand.
Curate, Don't Eliminate: You can still share glimpses of your personal life, but choose moments that reflect well on you and your brand.
Privacy Matters: Review your privacy settings regularly and be mindful of what you share publicly.
Seek Support: If oversharing stems from trauma, consider seeking professional help. Building healthy coping mechanisms will benefit both your personal and professional life.
Remember: Authenticity doesn't mean transparency. It's about presenting a genuine version of yourself that aligns with your professional goals. Being strategic allows you to build trust and connect with your audience while maintaining a level of professionalism.
By striking a balance, you can build a strong personal brand that is both authentic and effective.
We explore these finite life details more in CLUB. Join today, signup for the email list or subscribe to the quarterly digital magazine subscription with all the certainty in your heart.
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