Personal Space at Work: Why Invading Limits Your Leadership

The Importance of Personal Space in Daily Coexistence

Have you ever felt like you've invaded someone's personal space, or that yours is being invaded? It is essential to consider that respecting the space of others is a basic part of daily coexistence and building better professional relationships.

People value their personal space at work. Although the distance varies between cultures, it is always crucial to value and respect it to ensure comfort and productivity.

H3: Consequences of Invasion (Two Key Scenarios)

Invading a colleague's vital space can generate tension, discomfort, and, worse, deteriorate the professional relationship, affecting the Executive Presence of the invader.

1. The Unexpected Physical Touch: Touching people without warning can be intimidating. For instance, being touched when you are aware of a small injury on your face. This demonstrates that grabbing or touching someone without permission, regardless of good intentions, can provoke an awkward and defensive reaction.

2. Unwanted Proximity: When a new team member used to lean on her manager's shoulder to talk, he became stressed and tried to avoid her. The manager, to avoid hurting sensibilities, ended up avoiding the conversation and close interaction. A vital project or a coaching session can be minimized due to fear of unwanted physical contact.

Hula Hoop Rules: Respect and Leadership

Imagine you are inside a hula hoop with another person inside. You lack ease of movement and feel invaded. To strengthen your relationships and project a respectful Executive Presence, consider these rules:

• Avoid Unnecessary Physical Contact: Do not touch, grab, or lean on a colleague's or superior's body without a clear reason and mutual agreement.

• Observe Body Language: If the person leans back, looks away, or crosses their arms when you approach, they are sending a signal that their space has been invaded. Respect that signal.

• The Intent Does Not Justify the Action: You must ask before attempting to grab someone or assuming your help will be welcomed, as in the anecdote of grabbing the man's tie on the plane.

Conclusion: Civility to Strengthen Relationships

Respecting personal space at work is a clear example of civility. Failing to strengthen your relationships does not help you project your Executive Presence. By respecting and adhering to these basic rules, you demonstrate that your behavior is aligned with your leadership, successfully creating a more pleasant and collaborative work environment.