The other day, one of my besties and I got deep into a conversation about my company’s mission—to redefine what it means to “go to work” (because let’s be real, some of these workplace norms are collecting dust). What started as a casual info-share turned into a full-on vent session, unpacking all the ways we’ve been conditioned to accept outdated career molds and office rules that make zero sense.
As we swapped stories, I could see her light bulb go off and frustration rise. Once you spot these business-as-usual traps, you can’t unsee them. And since my work is all about helping folks recognize and break free from these cycles, I figured, why keep this tea between us?
The workplace is stuck in 1995, and it’s time for a reboot. So let’s talk about it—here are my six corporate workplace myths that need fixing (ASAP).
Molds, Norms, and Nonsense, oh my!
Now, you might be wondering, “Outdated career mold’? ‘Workplace norms’? You mean like… measuring leadership potential by who can endure the most pointless meetings? Or CC’ing half the company on an email just to look important?”
Yeah, that’s definitely foul—but not entirely what I mean. Here’s the deal:
- An outdated career mold is the rigid, traditional path people feel stuck in—like the belief that success only looks one way (e.g. Climbing the corporate ladder, staying in one industry forever, or following a set of old-school job “rules” that simply make no sense).
- An outdated workplace norm is more about a company’s culture and systems—things like a toxic hustle mentality, rigid hierarchies, outdated leadership styles, or the way employee well-being is ignored in the name of “productivity.”
Long story short? These are just fancy ways of describing non-serving nonsense that needs to go. Now that we’re on the same page, let’s dive in.
Myth: “You Have to Pay Your Dues”
Reality: High-impact work beats high tenure.
The Breakdown
Success isn’t a waiting game. The whole “put in your time, then you’ll get your shot” mindset? Played out. Working late just to be seen working late? That’s not hustle, that’s inefficiency.
The Receipts
Harvard Business Review and McKinsey confirm it—results, not hours clocked, drive career growth. And as Marie Forleo, entrepreneur and bestselling author puts it: success isn’t about waiting in line for your ‘turn.’ It’s about making things happen, figuring things out, and proving you’re the one for the job. Time spent isn’t the same as value added.
The Fix: New success metrics.
Smart companies prioritize outcomes over optics. Instead of promoting based on tenure, they reward impact and results. Organizations that focus on performance over seniority cultivate a dynamic team better equipped to lead and thrive—outpacing their competition.
Myth: “Office First, Remote as a Privilege”
Reality: Productivity isn’t about a zip code.
The Breakdown
The idea that remote workers are less committed or effective is tired and needs to be retired. Studies show employees with flexible work options are often more productive, innovative, and loyal.
The Receipts
McKinsey found that 87% of workers would choose remote or hybrid work if given the option, with flexibility ranking as a top factor in job satisfaction—above even compensation. Sarah Jakes Roberts, businesswoman and bestselling author of Power Moves, often talks about breaking out of boxes that weren’t made for you. That applies here too. The traditional office-first mindset is just that—a box. One that assumes everyone thrives in the same rigid structure. But the best talent today isn’t asking for permission to work differently; they’re expecting it.
The Fix: Treat remote and hybrid work as a performance strategy, not a perk.
Gartner and Forbes confirm that flexibility is not just a bonus—it’s a productivity and satisfaction game-changer. Companies that resist this shift aren’t just at risk of losing top talent; they’re falling behind the curve, while forward-thinking organizations are gaining the competitive edge with work-life integration.
Myth: “The Boss is Always Right”
Reality: The best leaders listen.
The Breakdown
The traditional “command-and-control” leadership style is over the hill. Leadership isn’t about authority—it’s about adaptability, emotional intelligence, and empowering others. Studies show leaders who foster collaboration and trust outperform those who rely on fear or hierarchy.
The Receipts
Brené Brown, bestselling author, and leadership researcher, emphasizes that vulnerability and active listening are the real power moves in leadership. In Dare to Lead, she argues that the strongest leaders create space for others to contribute, rather than demanding blind obedience. Gallup research consistently backs this up—employees who feel heard are more engaged, more productive, and are far more likely to stay long-term, contributing to a stronger and more loyal workforce.
The Fix: Better leadership models.
Servant leadership, adaptive leadership, and people-first management drive better business outcomes and higher retention. Employees thrive under managers who engage, support and inspire, not those who dictate.
Myth: “Only Formal Experience Counts”
Reality: Lived experience is expertise.
The Breakdown
Career paths aren’t one-size-fits-all, and the most innovative companies already recognize this. Traditional hiring favors linear career trajectories, but the best problem solvers often come from non-traditional backgrounds. Transferable skills, unique perspectives, and real-world experience create stronger, more adaptable teams.
The Receipts
The 2024 LinkedIn Workplace Learning Report confirms it—“skills-first hiring” isn’t a trend, it’s the new standard. With 75% of hiring managers prioritizing skills over degrees, the definition of ‘qualified’ is getting a much-needed update. And as Vivian Tu, author of Rich AF, would tell you—just because your experience doesn’t fit neatly into a corporate box doesn’t mean it’s worthless. Non-traditional paths, from social media and gig work to side hustles, aren’t just viable; they’re often a competitive edge.
The Fix: Experience > Degrees
Sometimes, the best credentials aren’t printed on a diploma—they’re built in the real world. As industries evolve, hands-on skills are becoming the true measure of potential. Companies that cling to outdated qualification standards are missing out on the talent that will drive their future success.
Myth: “If You Deserve It, They’ll Notice”
Reality: Self-advocacy isn’t bragging, it’s leadership.
The Breakdown
Many talented professionals assume their work speaks for itself. It doesn’t. Waiting and hoping isn’t a strategy—owning your leadership journey is. If you don’t communicate your value, you risk being overlooked for opportunities you’ve already earned.
The Receipts
Sarah Jakes Roberts is clear on this—waiting for permission to take up space is a losing game. Hoping someone will tap you on the shoulder? Wishful thinking. If you want to move up, speak up. Self-advocacy isn’t arrogance; it’s how you ensure your value is seen. The research agrees—McKinsey found that professionals who actively manage their career trajectory through self-advocacy, networking, and strategic visibility are more inclined to advance.
The Fix: Make the ask—clearly, directly, and with a story.
If you’re ready for more responsibility but struggling to convey confidence, here’s a tip: facts alone don’t drive promotions—how you frame your impact does. Storytelling isn’t just for branding; it’s one of the most powerful career advancement tools. Use it to highlight your brilliance and make a case for the next level.
Myth: “You Have to Blend In to Win”
Reality: Success isn’t about squeezing into a corporate costume. It’s about showing up as your full, unfiltered self.
The Breakdown
Introverts feel pressured to force extroversion. Expressive personalities get labeled as “too much.” Women get told to “toughen up” to be taken seriously. But studies prove the opposite: authenticity—not conformity—fuels career growth.
The Receipts
Real estate mogul, investor, and beloved Shark Tank icon, Barbara Corcoran built her empire by embracing exactly who she is—no apologies, no toning it down. From being underestimated because of her looks to leveraging her humor as a powerful business tool, she shows us that standing out is a career superpower. And science is on her side: Harvard Business Review and Psychology Today highlight how authenticity drives stronger leadership, enhances employee commitment, and elevates performance.
The Fix: Redefine Success On Your Terms.
If you’re an introvert who skips happy hours, naturally flamboyant and full of expression, or a woman who refuses to “bro it up” just to fit in—good. The workplace needs more real, not more replicas. Own your voice, your strengths, and your perspective. When you back that up with results, you don’t just earn respect—you shift the standard. Not by playing the game, but by changing it.
You’re Not the Problem; The System Is
I want to be clear—if you’ve bought into these myths, you’re not alone, and it’s not your fault. Traditions can be hard to break. They have a way of sticking around, even when they no longer serve us. I know this because I’ve lived it. I’ve worked in environments where these myths weren’t just beliefs—they were treated as law. I’ve seen firsthand how they hold people back. And that’s why I have a point of view on this.
But why should you listen to me? Well, I’ve put in the work—researching, consulting, and coaching professionals who are facing these exact challenges. So no, I don’t have all the answers. But I do have receipts. I read. I research. And I care—a lot.
So if these myths have ever made you question your worth, your work, or your next move, I’m here to help you flip the script and remind you: You don’t need to change who you are to succeed. You just need to own it.
A note from Erin: Thank you for being here 🙂 If these ideas or perspectives resonate with you, I’d love for you to subscribe or share them with someone you care about. If you want to make a change or when the time feels right, I’m here to help. Check out my new “WORK WITH ME” page to explore how we can collaborate—or swing by my “CONTACT” page to say hello, ask a question, or start a conversation.
