Buzzword busting | What is 'pleasanteeism' and what can HR do about it?

HR Grapevine recently discussed ‘glossing,’ a term that describes business leaders dealing with difficult scenarios at work by pretending everything is fine, to ease the anxieties of employees.

It’s a concerning trend that often backfires, as ongoing workplace issues go unaddressed, damaging trust, morale, and engagement. At worst, it can lead to a “toxic culture where people don't feel valued,” said Peter Wood, Chief Technical Officer at Spectrum Search.

But it’s not only managers and leaders guilty of putting on a façade at work to avoid difficult conversations; employees are also hiding behind a brave face.

What is pleasanteeism?

‘Pleasanteeism’ is a rising trend – who doesn’t love another buzzword – in which employees are hiding their stress and disengagement by pretending that all is well, resulting in long-term issues including burnout and attrition.