Everyone can get a little emotional at times. Be it from a bad day or from a disparaging remark from a co-worker or boss. No matter the reason, it is always better to walk away from your cubicle, away from the stares of co-workers to have a moment, shed some tears and recollect yourself.
Crying or being overly emotional can be seen as a sign of weakness as an inability to handle the stress of the position. Not the message you want your boss to get, particularly before a review or during your next salary discussion.
This 2005 article from the New York Times, discusses crying at work bluntly. Unable to find an article referencing the rampant crying of the secretarial staff in the bathroom of Sterling Cooper, this commentary on AMC blogs will have to suffice.
How do you feel about openly crying or being overly emotional at work?
I think it depends more on the situation. The situation you described above would be a good one to leave the office a little early for the day or take an extended lunch. But does this go for positive emotions as well? If you have a big “win” for your company, does a shout of joy come across as unprofessional?
I sure hope not since I tend to be a pretty loud guy.
Matt,
I completely agree what is and is not acceptable depends on your personal work environment. If shouting and leaping for joy is acceptable (or in some cases ringing a very loud bell), go for it , if you are comfortable.
On the other hand, I don’t think anyone has ever regretted acting more reserved in a professional environment. My litmus test would be, if one of my co-workers acted on their emotions like that, would I be uncomfortable? My goal is to not make other people uncomfortable.
Aurora
The Crying @Work is indeed a tricky one. I’ve cried at work…in the MEN’s Room. I have seen workers who Played-the-Crybaby-Card; that is, they shed Crocodile Tears!