In the workplace, we all wear masks—adapting our behaviors, tone, and expressions depending on the environment. This concept is brilliantly explored in the Apple TV+ series Severance, where employees' work and personal selves are completely severed. The "Innies" know only their office existence, while the "Outies" live their personal lives with no memory of work. While real-life workplaces don’t enforce such stark divisions, employees still navigate the tension between bringing their "whole selves" to work while maintaining professional decorum.

The "Whole Self" at Work—Within Reason

The push for workplace authenticity has gained momentum in recent years, with companies encouraging employees to show up as their true selves. Authenticity fosters connection, trust, and engagement—but it must be balanced with professionalism. Employees shouldn’t feel pressured to suppress their identities, yet certain boundaries help maintain a respectful, inclusive, and productive environment.

For businesses, the key lies in fostering a culture where people feel comfortable sharing aspects of their personality—without feeling forced to disclose vulnerabilities or personal struggles beyond their comfort level. Transparency in leadership, empathy in communication, and clear professional expectations help create this balance. Much like in Severance, where the characters struggle to reconcile their dual identities, professionals must find ways to integrate personal authenticity without compromising workplace norms.

However, this is easier said than done. Many employees still feel pressure to conform to unspoken rules about behavior, dress, and communication styles. For example, some industries still expect a traditional executive presence, while others embrace casual authenticity. Navigating these expectations requires emotional intelligence and adaptability. Employers can help by setting clear guidelines on professionalism while also promoting an inclusive and psychologically safe environment where employees feel valued for their unique contributions.

Generational Expectations: The Masks Leaders Wear

Different generations expect different "masks" from their leaders. Baby Boomers and Gen X often admire leaders who maintain a professional distance, embodying traditional executive presence. Millennials and Gen Z, on the other hand, value leaders who are relatable, open about challenges, and engaged in social issues. This generational shift influences everything from internal communications to media relations, requiring leaders to adjust how they present themselves across platforms. A CEO might adopt a polished, authoritative voice in investor calls while being more casual and candid in a LinkedIn post or company town hall.

This also has significant implications for corporate messaging. In an era of social media and heightened transparency, leaders must be mindful of how they communicate across different mediums. A leader’s ability to switch between "masks"—whether speaking at a press conference, engaging in a team meeting, or participating in a social media Q&A—can determine how they are perceived by different audiences. A lack of consistency or authenticity can damage trust, while a thoughtful approach to adaptability can strengthen a company’s reputation.

Navigating the Future of Workplace Identity

The challenge for modern workplaces is to allow employees and leaders to integrate authenticity without eroding professional expectations. Severance presents a dystopian version of this struggle, but in reality, businesses that strike this balance not only foster a healthier work environment but also enhance their brand reputation. When employees feel psychologically safe to express themselves without fear of judgment, they are more engaged, productive, and loyal to their organizations.

For leaders and businesses, the key is to acknowledge that masks will always exist—but they should serve as tools for effective communication rather than barriers to authenticity. After all, authenticity—when managed wisely—is not just good culture; it's good business.