Gianpiero Petriglieri: Coming out of the psychological closet
Nov 13, 2023
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Gianpiero Petriglieri, a top management thinker, discusses the importance of addressing hidden emotions in professional organizations. They explore the blending of professionalism and emotional expression, the impact of post-COVID workplace dynamics, grief and anger in the workplace, psychological dynamics of professionals, and the importance of authenticity in leadership.
Leaders should show authenticity and vulnerability to connect with followers.
Balancing professionalism and vulnerability is important for professionals in their interactions with clients and colleagues.
Deep dives
Importance of leaders being authentic and vulnerable
Leaders need to come out of the psychological closet and show authenticity and vulnerability in their leadership roles. Many leaders feel they need to hide their emotions and project a professional image, but this can hinder effectiveness and connection with their followers. It is important for leaders to reflect the concerns and aspirations of their followers in order to build a strong connection. Authenticity does not mean leaders should show all aspects of themselves, but rather reflect the parts that resonate with their followers' concerns and aspirations.
The professional mask and its impact on professionals
Professionals often learn to hide their self-doubts and true selves behind a professional mask. They construct a glossy persona to project expertise and value to clients, while concealing their insecurities. This mask can create a disconnection from their true selves and hinder authentic interactions. However, it is important to strike a balance between showing vulnerability and maintaining professionalism. Clients and colleagues want professionals who understand their concerns and aspirations, not someone who emotes excessively.
The tension between the instrumental and humanistic goals in organizations
Organizations need to balance instrumental goals, such as achieving targets and performance, with humanistic goals, which focus on personal growth and development. This tension is particularly evident in professional organizations. Leaders must navigate this balance, understanding the professional culture and market imperatives. It is crucial for leaders to hold and manage these tensions within themselves and the organization. They need to embrace the complexities and variations present in a diverse environment to effectively lead professionals.
Challenges and complexities of hybrid work and emotional spaces in organizations
Remote and hybrid work arrangements have impacted the emotional dynamics within organizations. The shift from physical workplaces to remote settings has highlighted the importance of cultivating closeness rather than just physical proximity. Organizations need to create an emotional space where individuals feel connected and supported. The pandemic has brought grief, loss, and anger, which continue to affect professionals. Leaders need to acknowledge and address these emotions, understanding that individuals may still be processing their experiences. Cultivating a sense of community and treating each other as humans in the workplace is vital for healthy and productive organizations.
Gianpiero Petriglieri, Associate Professor at INSEAD, is ranked as one of the top 50 management thinkers in the world. Laura and Tony talk to him about the difficult emotions that often stay hidden and suppressed in organisations and individuals, and how leaders of professional organisations can become more effective when they engage more directly with these emotions.