Emotional breakdowns at the workplace are relatively frequent - what are the appropriate ways to manage them?
In today's fast-paced work environment, crying at work can be a sensitive issue. This article, republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license, aims to provide insights on the subject and offer guidance for both employees and managers.
Crying at work can stem from various reasons, such as difficulties meeting workload demands, interpersonal conflict, major workplace changes, or personal issues unrelated to work. Regardless of the cause, it is essential to remember that crying is a normal, healthy response to stress.
However, the awkwardness surrounding crying at work can lead to questions about the crier's motives. If a person is seen as manipulating the situation, they may be perceived as insincere. Moreover, regular crying can negatively impact career progression, as it may distract from performance.
For the person crying, it is crucial to shift focus, take a break, reframe the emotion, and seek help if needed. On the other hand, for a manager or colleague, being prepared, showing empathy, challenging one's bias, understanding one's zone of influence, and seeking help are key.
Employment experts Robyn Johns and Rowena Ditzell recommend responding with empathy, allowing the person time to compose themselves, and providing a supportive and non-judgmental environment. They emphasise that crying should not be suppressed but should be addressed with understanding and compassion.
An organization's unique social norms and culture may also influence how tears are interpreted. In some workplaces, employees may feel pressured to regulate their emotions, while in more supportive workplaces, emotions are regarded as being part of the human experience.
Interestingly, a recent survey by Headspace found that approximately half of in-person and hybrid workers, and 70% of fully remote workers have cried due to work-related issues. Gender norms can also play a role in how crying is perceived and reacted to at work. Women may be more likely to cry and suffer from negative stereotypes, while men's crying is less accepted.
The fear of being seen as unprofessional or insincere can discourage people from crying at work. However, as workers may become overwhelmed at times, crying is a natural part of human behavior, and it should not come as a surprise in the workplace.
Robyn Johns is an Associate Professor in Human Resource Management and Industrial Relations at the University of Technology Sydney. Rowena Ditzell is a Lecturer in Management at UTS Business School, University of Technology Sydney. Their research and expertise offer valuable insights into navigating this sensitive issue in the workplace.
