The BBC recently explored workplace crying etiquette, examining reader opinions and expert insights on the acceptability of emotional displays in the workplace. Most respondents shared that they find crying at work acceptable, though some acknowledged that coworkers may still judge the behavior.
Clara, a 48-year-old from Lancaster, recalled crying at work after getting a ‘blasting’ as a young employee, and later in her career ‘in frustration.’ She also shared that she had cried after receiving bad news from home and left work immediately. Meanwhile, Emma, another respondent, told the outlet she felt she had to keep her emotions under control due to working in ‘a tough male-dominated environment’ and would be tough on herself for ‘showing emotion or ‘weakness.’
Despite some research suggesting that women are more likely to cry than men, the BBC heard from some men who were open about their experiences crying in front of coworkers. Guy Clayton, a doctor from London, recounted how he had often cried ‘with patients, colleagues, and families over the years, when I’ve shared their sadness.’ A 38-year-old Londoner working in finance added that he had become emotional while dealing with personal issues at work but felt it showed ‘a professional dedication’ to still show up.
Experts from the field of executive coaching, such as Shereen Hoban and Georgia Blackburn, argued that it’s outdated to find crying at work unacceptable. Hoban emphasized that emotional intelligence is a strength, not a liability, in today’s professional world. Blackburn noted that it’s not uncommon for people to get upset at work and that employers must understand how to manage employees’ emotional states. Amy Powney, a fashion designer and mother, expressed her belief that crying at work has been ‘demonized’ and refused to apologize for her breakdowns. She stated that women in leadership should be able to show their emotions, calling it a ‘superpower.’
Ann Francke, CEO of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), warned that not everyone is accepting of weeping in the workplace and that individuals may face judgment for doing so. She noted that women who cry at work are often seen as ‘too emotional,’ while men who let their emotions show may be perceived as ‘soft’ or ‘vulnerable.’ Francke also highlighted that senior leaders typically don’t get the same leeway with their emotions as junior employees. She explained that when a senior leader cries, it can be seen as shocking or inappropriate, but if handled with authenticity, it can also be powerful, showing that leaders are human and care deeply about their work.
The CMI provided four tips for those who might become tearful at work: ‘Give yourself permission to step back and take a moment,’ ‘you don’t need to hide your emotions,’ ‘take a short break if needed,’ and ‘managers and colleagues need to acknowledge when their staff are crying — offer a tissue, don’t pretend it’s not happening.’ These insights reflect a growing recognition of the importance of emotional well-being in professional settings and the need for supportive, understanding environments.