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Unhiding: The Secret to Unleashing Performance and Potential
Ruth Rathblott, MSW—Author, TEDx Speaker, and former Nonprofit CEO—reveals why ‘unhiding’ is the ultimate game-changer for leaders committed to building a culture of inclusion, trust, and possibility.
What if the key to unlocking peak performance lies in addressing what you and your employees are hiding? In today’s fast-paced workplace, adaptability and creativity are crucial. Yet, many leaders overlook a significant challenge: hiding. Employees often conceal aspects of themselves due to fear of judgment, rejection, and even retaliation, which stifles personal growth and organizational progress.
The Cost of Hiding
Hiding may seem like a personal issue, but it has far-reaching effects on your organization. When employees feel compelled to hide, the consequences ripple through the workplace, directly impacting:
- Innovation: Creativity is stifled when employees don’t feel safe sharing ideas.
- Engagement: Energy spent on hiding detracts from full participation in their roles and on their teams.
- Productivity: The focus shifts away from work, leading to decreased efficiency.
- Potential: The overall potential of the team and employees remains untapped.
A 2023 Deloitte study, Uncovering Culture, found that 60 percent of employees “cover” parts of themselves to fit in. The actual number may be even higher, as many believe “everyone hides something.” But what if, instead of letting these hidden aspects erode your organization, you could transform them into strengths? Imagine changing the hidden energy into innovation and performance. What if you could focus on success rather than managing disengagement? This isn’t about theory. It’s about putting a plan into action to transform your organization.
The Impact of Unhiding
Unhiding isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a business imperative. When people feel safe to bring their best selves to work, the results are clear:
- Enhanced Innovation: Unhiding allows for diverse perspectives, leading to creative solutions and forward-thinking ideas that give your organization a competitive edge.
- Increased Engagement: When employees no longer expend energy on hiding, they can fully engage in their roles.
- Improved Mental Health: A culture of openness reduces stress and anxiety, leading to a healthier work environment. This doesn’t just benefit the individual—it enhances overall organizational resilience.
- Higher Productivity: With fewer barriers, employees can focus their energy on their work, leading to increased efficiency and output.
Why Leaders Need to Go First
For unhiding to truly thrive in an organization, leaders must lead by example. Authentic leadership (Unhidden Leadership) isn’t just about setting the tone; it’s about establishing a clear, actionable plan that aligns with your goals. When leaders model the behavior they want to see, it encourages employees to follow suit, creating a two-way street. This leadership approach is essential for creating a dynamic and resilient organization.
Start the Process: Acknowledge What You Are Hiding
I invite you to take the first step. Starting the unhiding process can break down barriers and foster a more inclusive and connected workplace. This isn’t just a choice—it’s a strategic move that will pay off:
- Increased Revenue: Engaged employees drive revenue growth.
- Reduced Turnover: A culture of trust reduces turnover.
- Stronger Team Cohesion: Openness improves collaboration.
- Enhanced Competitive Edge: Unlocking potential gives you a competitive edge.
Once you commit to unhiding, there’s no turning back. It begins with YOU.
Final Thoughts: The Business Case for Unhiding
Leaders who go first and embrace unhiding pave the way for innovation, engagement, and productivity to thrive. Unhiding isn’t just a strategy; it’s the key to unlocking your leadership and your organization’s true potential.
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