Why managing impressions is critical (and doesn’t make you inauthentic)

A critical skill in your pursuit of career success is impression management, where you have an awareness of who you are, what you are capable of, and the real nature of your strengths and weaknesses.

A positive impression can increase opportunities and help you gain some degree of control over the pace and extent of your career advancement.

When you are self-aware, you recognize the impressions others are forming about you.

If a manager is tasking someone with a leadership role, you need to be sure your skills and ability are on display effectively, but also ensure that you don't come across as too abrasive. The key to impression management is to be emotionally aware of yourself and your image.