The Emotional Workplace: Navigating Tears and Empathy at Work

In the contemporary professional landscape, the act of crying at work has emerged as a nuanced topic, prompting discussions on whether it represents strength, vulnerability, or simply the human condition. Recent events, such as the tearful appearance of UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves at Prime Minister’s Questions, have brought this issue to the forefront, sparking widespread conversation.

Personal accounts reveal that emotional displays in the workplace are not uncommon. Many individuals shared experiences of becoming emotional due to work-related stress, frustration, or personal life events. Clara, a 48-year-old from Lancaster, recounted instances of crying due to both workplace pressure and personal news, emphasizing the need for a supportive environment during such times. Conversely, Emma highlighted the internal struggle of suppressing emotions in a male-dominated field, fearing that showing vulnerability would be perceived as weakness. While research often suggests women may be more prone to tears, many men also shared their experiences of crying at work, often in empathetic response to patients, colleagues, or families, as noted by Dr. Guy Clayton. Another finance professional shared that experiencing emotional moments at work, especially when dealing with personal issues, was a testament to his professional dedication.

Embracing Emotions: Strength, Not a Liability

Leading figures in career development advocate for a shift in perspective, moving away from the outdated notion that professionalism requires emotional detachment. Executive coach Shereen Hoban asserts that emotional intelligence is a significant asset in today’s professional world, rather than a hindrance. Career coach Georgia Blackburn further emphasizes that organizations must be equipped to support employees experiencing emotional distress, fostering an environment where such displays are understood and managed compassionately. This approach, she argues, leads to increased employee motivation and long-term job satisfaction.

The importance of a supportive workplace is illustrated by Amanda from Stockport, who shared her experience of crying during a job interview shortly after her father’s cancer diagnosis. Despite the emotional display, she secured the position and found a workplace that offered immense support during her challenging period, allowing her to openly grieve and cope with her father’s passing.

Championing Emotional Expression in the Workplace

Fashion designer Amy Powney is a vocal advocate for embracing emotions at work, believing that the expression of feelings has become unfairly demonized. During a period of intense personal and professional transition, Powney experienced periods of public crying, which she views not as a weakness but as a “superpower” and a sign of strength, particularly for women in leadership roles. She passionately calls for a workplace culture that encourages emotional authenticity and vulnerability.

Navigating Perceptions: Men, Women, and Hierarchy

Ann Francke, CEO of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), observes that societal perceptions of crying at work can vary significantly. While women showing emotion may be labeled “too emotional,” men displaying vulnerability might be seen as “soft.” The impact of such displays can also differ based on one’s position within an organization; a junior employee crying might be more easily excused than a senior leader. However, Francke notes that when leaders cry with authenticity, it can humanize them and demonstrate a deep commitment to their work.

Conversely, executive coach Shereen Hoban cautions that in some professional environments, maintaining composure may still be perceived as a sign of strength, potentially influencing promotion prospects. She points out that a bias still exists where emotional stability is equated with professional competence. However, Hoban also highlights a growing number of organizations that value leaders who are “real, self-aware, and able to navigate complexity, including their own emotions.” Ultimately, a single instance of crying is unlikely to derail a career; consistent performance, presence, and the ability to recover and move forward with intention are more critical factors.

Guidance for Managing Tearfulness at Work

To foster a more supportive workplace, the following practices are recommended:

• Grant yourself permission to step back and take a moment when feeling overwhelmed.
• Acknowledge that showing emotion is natural and often reflects a deep care for your work.
• Seek support from a trusted colleague, take a short break, or speak with your manager or HR department if needed.
• Managers and colleagues should acknowledge emotional displays, offering support rather than ignoring them. Offering a tissue or a moment of understanding can make a significant difference.

Provided by the CMI