Because people are strange. That’s why.

In my line of work, I field many questions about human behavior, as if I have some special insight into how people think and act. I talk to many people in varied industries, and from these conversations, I can glean some universal truths about human behavior. The first is that most people are insecure and like to spend time that should be allocated to things like vetting candidates by talking about themselves. The second is that people are strange.

Unique, quirky, odd, eccentric, whatever you want to call it. . .all people bring their personality traits into the workplace. Often times, a client will ask something like this: “The interviewer wouldn’t look me in the eye while he was talking. He stared at his hands. What do you think that means?” What I think it means is that the interviewer a) has not been trained in how to conduct interviews, and b) the interviewer is socially awkward.

There really is no secret explanation as to why people do what they do, or behave the way they do in a business context. Human beings are products of their experiences, as well as their environments.  It is not as if they just check that at the door when they scan their badge to enter the office. The weirdness comes with them.

“Why does my coworker share personal details of his life with me?” I don’t know—because he lacks a filter and doesn’t know what is and is not appropriate for workplace discussion? Again, people can be odd.

“That guy doesn’t have a single personal item in his office. It looks completely sterile. It’s weird!” Yes, that is weird, and who knows why he has no photographs, whimsical coffee mugs, or even a souvenir pen. The reality is that you’re probably a bit strange, too. Everyone is. If everyone were exactly the same, life would be a robotic experience. Thankfully, strange can be entertaining. It can be amusing. It can even help you to be better at your job. Instead of speculating as to why people do things, you could always ask. The answer will probably surprise you and will give you more insight into how your coworkers think and behave than simple observation would. When you better understand people, it is easier to work with them toward a common goal.

Yes, people are strange. And although at times that can be annoying, it is generally a good thing. Oddness is part of the human condition, and no one is exempt from it. So, the next time you wonder why the interviewer is doing something, or why your manager acts a certain way, just relax, take a deep breath and attribute it to their own individual uniqueness.

The best people are a little weird!! Yes, I count myself among them.

Peace, out.