Glossing at Work: What It Is and How to Navigate It
Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s all too familiar in today’s workplace: glossing.
If you’ve ever felt like you were putting on a shiny facade to fit in or avoid conflict at work (or perhaps your manager is doing so), then you know what I’m talking about.
Let’s unpack what glossing is, how it impacts our professional lives, and some practical tips for dealing with it.
What is Glossing?
Glossing is a form of toxic positivity and gaslighting where we present an overly polished or insincere version of oneself or the present situation in professional settings.
Think of it as putting on a shiny coat that hides the rough edges—essentially, it’s when you mask your true feelings, experiences, or opinions to appear more agreeable or likable.
Why Do We Gloss?
Glossing often stems from a desire to fit in or avoid judgment.
As recent discussions reveal (see, for example, Business Insider article), glossing has been a recent trend among leadership.
When bosses gloss over real issues—like employee burnout or workload challenges—they create a toxic environment that leaves team members feeling unsupported and disconnected. They are choosing to ignore real workplace issues, which can create bigger problems for employees.
How Glossing Affects the Workplace
Lack of Authenticity: When everyone glosses over their true selves, it creates a culture of superficiality. Team members may struggle to form genuine connections, leading to a lack of trust. This is not a good look for managers.
Communication Breakdown: Glossing often leads to misunderstandings. When people aren’t honest about their feelings or opinions, it can result in poor decision-making and unresolved conflicts.
Toxic Positivity and Gaslighting: The pressure to maintain a positive front can stifle honest conversations about challenges. This cycle often leads to burnout, as employees feel compelled to ignore their struggles in favor of a “perfect” image.
Impact on Morale: When bosses engage in glossing, it can demoralize employees. Ignoring real issues sends the message that employee concerns don’t matter, leading to disengagement and high turnover rates.
Erosion of Trust: As reported, when leadership glosses over problems, it can erode trust within the team. Employees may feel they can't approach their bosses with genuine concerns, further alienating them.
Tips for Dealing with Glossing
Embrace Vulnerability: It’s okay to share when you’re struggling or need support. Opening up can foster a more authentic environment and encourage others to do the same.
Practice Transparency: Be honest about your thoughts and feelings. If something isn’t working, communicate that. You’d be surprised how many others might feel the same way.
Cultivate a Supportive Culture: If you’re in a leadership role, prioritize creating a safe space where everyone feels comfortable being themselves. Encourage open dialogues and celebrate authenticity.
Set Boundaries: If glossing feels like a coping mechanism, take a step back. Define what you’re comfortable sharing and stick to it. It’s perfectly fine to maintain some privacy.
Seek Guidance: If you’re unsure how to navigate glossing in your workplace, consider working with a coach. They can provide personalized strategies to help you express yourself more authentically. It may also be worth escalating at the workplace to management or Human Resources if issues are being ignored due to glossing.
Ready to Get Real?
If you’re feeling the pressure to gloss at work and want to break free from that cycle, consider reaching out to That Work Girl.
Let’s embrace our true selves at work—because the real you is always more powerful than the glossy version.
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Until next time,
That Work Girl