According to a survey by the Accountemps firm, more than 4 employees out of 10 admit to having cried at work. Nonetheless, nearly one executive out of two does not see any negative effect. However, 35% of them felt that crying at work was unacceptable, compared to 38% of employees.
Employees decidedly judge themselves severely, since 30% of them believe that crying too often can harm their professional future, compared to 9% of managers.
“On occasion, emotional outbursts at work are understandable, but if they become too frequent, they can affect relations with colleagues and your productivity,” says the Canadian president of Accountemps, David King.
In difficult situations where emotional intelligence is strongly called for, it is important to step back before reacting. “Your ability to meet challenges with patience, while keeping your composure, will testify to your professionalism,” continues Mr. King. “This could even promote your career advancement or growth.”
Older employees less tolerant
According to this survey conducted among about 300 office employees and over 270 Canadian executives, older employees are more apprehensive of crying than younger workers, or 47% of those 55 years and older, compared to 42% of those 35-54 years old and 31% of those 18-34 years old.
But it’s not only tears that show up at work – anger can also break out. Indeed, more than half of employees (52%) admit to having lost their cool in their professional environment. Among those who had a fit of anger, 64% say that their outburst was directed at a colleague, while 34% say it targeted a superior.
5 ways to manage difficult situations at work
1. The domineering boss
Your boss is constantly watching you, which stresses you and hurts your productivity. Instead of remaining frustrated, set up a private meeting with your boss to discuss ways to earn his trust and more independence.
2. The combative colleague
Your colleague and you are like dog and cat about a problem. Strive to listen to your colleague’s opinion and include another person. The opinion of a third party should allow you to resolve the dispute more effectively.
3. The innocent “gaffe”
After sending an email to your boss, you realize that you made a mistake. Instead of getting angry, keep your cool and send a follow-up note to your manager. Even better, apologize to him in person.
4. The personal emergency
Sooner or later, personal difficulties will encroach on your professional life. Talk about it — in broad lines — with your boss to ask him for leave or a flexible schedule. Honesty pays off!
5. An unsustainable workload
Balancing too many tasks at a time can lead to burnout. Ask for a meeting with your superior to prioritize your projects and to delegate them to colleagues.