As a leader, it’s often beneficial to put your feelings on display. But there are certain situations when unleashing your raw, unfiltered emotions can backfire. How do you decide when to put on a poker face at work? Ask yourself these questions:

* How will expressing my emotions help or hinder my goals? If you’re trying to build relationships and rapport, using a poker face may come across as insincere or uninterested, whereas if you’re negotiating, it may be advantageous to protect your position.

* What’s my role in the interaction? For example, if you’re leading a meeting, you may want to display more confidence and assertiveness, whereas if you’re a participant, you may want to display more openness and receptivity.

* How appropriate is it for me to show vulnerability in this context? Consider whether the situation calls for a more guarded approach or whether it’s appropriate to be more open, along with your personal style and what feels more authentic to you.

* What are the norms of the people or organization I’m communicating with? Different cultures and groups have different expectations around the expression of emotions. Try to adjust your behavior accordingly.
This tip is adapted from “When — and How — to Keep a Poker Face at Work,” by Melody Wilding
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