In our previous blog, we have discussed about two professionals Mini and Ravindra who were wondering what others think of them at workplace. When seen keenly, knowingly or unknowingly, both have created an image at the workplace. Many of us may face this situation and we may not even realize.

What contributes to such image building? Does it happen automatically or is there something that we can do about it? Can we alter the image that is once created? Let us try addressing some of these questions.

Each one of us carries an image at workplace

Whether we are aware or not, all of us acquire an image at workplace. By watching the way people around us respond or relate, we can gauge our image. One needs a keen eye to notice the same and make out what the image is.

What contributes to such image building?

This is a very important aspect to understand. It all starts with our behavior, which forms a pattern. For example, if one engages into excessive talking in every context without checking the relevance, if one tends to dominate everyone else in every meeting, if one tends to share with superiors details of small talks among colleagues, people tend to see a pattern and prepare their response. In other words, people tend to form an opinion after seeing a pattern of our behaviors and frame an image around us. It may be labeled as “fun guy”, “endless talker”, “show-off guy”, “boss’s spy”, “senseless comedian”, “intense guy”, “cunning guy” and so on.

What is the impact of having such image?

Our image influences the way others respond to us. It will surely have a bearing on our work and efficiency. For example, Mini (in the first example) will struggle to drive any point seriously because many may not take her seriously. Perhaps she would have belittled herself in the earlier interactions or joked about her own mistakes; or she would have openly said, “bear with me, I talk a lot”. A stage comes even if she wants to make a sensible point, others will discount the same.

How to work towards image makeover?

Image makeover is certainly possible, but not easy. It involves curbing those behaviors, which contributed to the earlier image; staying cool and patient with others who still see you with earlier image and consciously demonstrating newer behaviors. A sustained effort is required to undo and redo the image! But it is certainly worth the effort!

Article – “What image are you creating for yourself at workplace?”
By: Dr.Raj, 
Published in HR Mirror, Hans India.
Follow Dr.Raj on Twitter @drraj29