TED Talks Daily
The problem with being "too nice" at work | Tessa West
May 28, 2024
Tessa West, a social psychologist who studies the science of uncomfortable interactions, explores the pitfalls of being 'too nice' at work. She reveals how excessive politeness often masks anxiety and hinders honest communication. Tessa shares actionable strategies for giving clear, constructive feedback that promotes growth and accountability. She dives into the impacts of anxious niceness, especially on marginalized groups, and emphasizes the importance of balancing kindness with honesty in professional settings.
18:00
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Quick takeaways
- Avoid masking anxiety with overly polite feedback at work, as it can be harmful.
- Transform feedback culture by providing clear, specific feedback instead of generic compliments.
Deep dives
Research on Awkward Social Interactions
Social psychologist Tessa West discusses her research on uncomfortable social interactions spanning various scenarios like new roommate relationships and negotiations. She delves into studying verbal and nonverbal behaviors, as well as physiological responses to discomfort during interactions, highlighting the complexities of human interaction dynamics.
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