Most people think they’re well-attuned to their strengths and weaknesses, but research shows most of them aren’t as self-aware as they believe. Only 10 to 15% of people in a study published in Harvard Business Review fit the criteria for being self-aware.

In the workplace, self-awareness can make or break your success. Self-aware employees understand their communication styles, how they handle stress and how their contributions impact others. Self-aware leaders are more attuned to themselves and their staff members, and they’re better equipped to lead with empathy.

Stephanie Licata, MA, ACC, a learning and leadership strategist and coach, says self-awareness directly impacts productivity, job satisfaction and a company’s bottom line. So, how can you become more self-aware? We share Licata’s top tips in this issue of PromoPro Daily.

  • Customize your communication style. Self-awareness makes it easier to adapt your communication style with different people. For example, if you know you cut right to the chase, Licata says you might soften your approach if you’re dealing with more sensitive topics or co-workers who prefer a gentler communication style.
  • Know your stresses. Maybe unclear objectives or intense competition stress you out. When you know your triggers, Licata says you can better control your reactions and plan or communicate your concerns early.
  • Lean into your strengths. Think about what you’re good at and align yourself with tasks that allow you to use these talents. According to Licata, it’s a great confidence-booster and can also increase your effectiveness.
  • Be open about your weaknesses. The key, Licata says, is acknowledging your weaknesses in team settings. This fosters trust and encourages others to share, which can lead to a supportive team environment.
  • Adjust to others’ work styles. You can also practice more self-awareness by understanding how others work and adapting to their styles. If you know a co-worker prefers face-to-face chats, drop by their office instead of sending a quick email.
  • Set achievable goals. When you’re self-aware, you know your capabilities. This can help you avoid overcommitting and delivering underwhelming results.
  • Understand your conflict style. If there’s some tension at work, you can tap into your self-awareness to navigate your way through. For example, you may tend to avoid conflict or try to gain a competitive edge. Understanding your style can improve conflict resolution, Licata says.
  • Stay aware of your mood. Remember that your mood directly impacts others. Licata says that staying aware of this can contribute to a positive, energizing work culture.

Like any skill, you can develop and strengthen your self-awareness. Start with the ideas above and work on cultivating this skill over time. Applying more self-awareness at work can not only enhance your professional growth but ultimately foster better teamwork and communication.

Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: Stephanie Licata, MA, ACC, is a learning and leadership strategist and coach for Cloverleaf, an employee engagement software. She has trained thousands of leaders across several industries in the art and science of coaching for developing individuals and teams.