Perceptions can be tricky. You may spend time trying to make sure that you act in the 'right' way around people only to find it's taken the 'wrong' way or you may think that you are naturally self conscious but others may perceive you as confident...as I said, tricky.
So how do you handle perceptions?
This
blog focuses on negative perceptions and may help, I found it really interesting at least. One of the best ways to find out what people really think of you is to do a 360 feedback exercise. Many workplaces now offer this and it involves sending a form/questionnaire out to your peers, your managers and some selected others and getting them to give you honest feedback. It can be quite difficult to receive - I was very nervous about mine but I can tell you (hand on heart) that it is definitely worthwhile. You may even be surprised - not all perceptions are negative! Ask your line manager for more.
If you don't want to do this at work then it may be something you can do with a close friend or family member - be prepared not to get upset or offended, the other person may find it difficult to tell you if you come across a little arrogant and they need to be able to trust you when you say 'now be really honest, I won't get upset'
Whoever you ask, get them to be honest. You may want to ask a few people and get some who you know are positive and if you're really brave, some who you know might be negative.
Take all of the comments on board, think them through and work out whether it is something you need or want to change. At the end of the day, it is only a perception but if you feel that it is holding you and/or your career back, it could be something you want to take on board.
