Build Integrity By Being You
Now when we think of consistency in business, we usually think about consistently repeating our tag line, consistently marketing, consistently following procedures etc…
What you may not be thinking of is consistently being YOU.
Have you ever met someone in person and then received an e-mail where you weren’t quite sure what the person was saying? This is because you met one person but got an e-mail from the person they think they have to be.
You have to make sure you are being you regardless of how you communicate with someone. Don’t try to be someone you’re not, pretty up your words or use “smart” language. There’s no need for that. Give them all of who you are!
Let me give you an example of consistency. Until last month, my only contact with Bonnie Ross-Parker (Founder of Xperience Connections) had been via phone and e-mail. No matter which way I connected with her, she was always a very positive person and I got the distinct impression that she enjoyed life.
In August, I had the pleasure of attending the Xperience Connections 11th Anniversary Celebration and Bonnie was gracious enough to allow me to stay with her through the event.
As soon as I saw Bonnie and she gave me a big hug, I knew exactly what I was in for. She was upbeat, happy and very much enjoying being the host. She was the same person I’d talked to on the phone and I’d communicated with via e-mail. I immediately felt comfortable and I knew I could trust her. She had integrity. That integrity was honored throughout the entire XC Anniversary event. Everyone felt it! Why? Because Bonnie doesn’t hide behind some façade of what she thinks you need to see. She just is who she is and let’s everyone know it.
So, the next time you wonder whether you should really be yourself or act like someone different, choose to be you. You’ll gain greater trust and you’ll be seen as having integrity.