What would workplaces look like if no one had to hide?
From subtle code-switching to outright concealment, millions of employees hide aspects of their identities to fit in at work.
In Unlocking Authenticity you’ll explore the untold stories of those who mask, the systemic forces that compel it, and the ways leaders and HR professionals can dismantle these barriers. Combining compelling narratives, research insights, and practical tools, this book offers a clear roadmap to foster authenticity and psychological safety in the workplace.
With timely strategies for navigating the backlash against DEI, Unlocking Authenticity equips readers to drive meaningful change and create environments where employees are empowered to show up as their true selves—and thrive.
When we dismantle the systemic barriers that are compelling employees to cover up their true selves at work, we enable inclusion, psychological safety and belonging for everyone.
Foreword xi
Preface Why this book? xiii
Introduction Authenticity: To not be or not to be? 1
Part 1: Why authenticity matters
1- The power of authenticity and the five hidden taxes 13
2- The roots of inauthenticity 35
3- Who am I, really? Identity and values 49
Part 2: How covering is not equal
4- The social norms of work 67
5- Power and privilege and the agency to be you 85
6- Men mask too 107
Part 3: Unlocking authenticity
7- North Nurture your core: Be the best version of you 133
8- East Enable connection 147
9- South Shift the system 161
10-West Write your legacy: Create a positive ripple which outlives you 175
The final act 189
Additional resources 191
Notes and References 193
Further reading 205
Values list 207
Acknowledgements 209
About the author 213
Index 215
Shivani Uberoi is a leading voice in workplace inclusion, helping companies create cultures where everyone belongs and thrives. A TEDx speaker, board advisor, and former leader at Sky and PwC, Shivani has spent over a decade driving sustainable change in organizations.
At Sky, Shivani founded two employee networks that grew to 5,000+ members, harnessing the power of community and connection. She set up The Wallflower Academy to use her deep EDI expertise, storytelling and corporate leadership experience to support organizations to build belonging in their teams.
Her passion for inclusion is personal, as detailed in her TEDx talk Why fitting in will screw you up, and she eventually found power in authenticity. Now, she helps leaders unlock that same potential in their teams.
