In my upcoming book The Pied Piper Principle; Lead, and Your Business Will Follow, Your Reputation is Everything is one the principles. And, after all of the feedback I received from my last blog, “Enough is Enough!” I know my readers will easily relate to this one.
What do people think when they hear your name? What is the impression you leave behind? What do they say about you when you are not there? As you ponder these thoughts, do you smile inside knowing thoughts of you leave a favorable imprint? Or, do you somewhat cringe at what may be said when you are not around?
The dictionary’s definition of reputation is: “An overall quality of character as seen or judged by people in general”. Note the word judged. Although we strive to live a life without judgment we cannot hide from it. Every action we make is judged and forms our reputation.
So, fill in this blank: (Your Name) has earned a reputation of someone that (blank).
Could the blank be any of the following?
…is optimistic
…true to his word
…reliable
…confident
Or, is it possible the blank is filled with some of these:
…lies
…is never on time
…breaks promises
…you can’t count on
As I write these words, I know what I want my reputation to be. But, that is looking forward into the future. Right now my reputation and yours is based on our past actions. Luckily we can change it…but it takes time.
From this moment forward, consider each interaction you have establishes and solidifies your reputation. Whether it is in person or over the phone, in email on or Facebook, every single move you make is the essence of who you are.
Here is a simple exercise that demonstrates just how powerful a reputation is. As you read each word below, think about the first person that pops into your head.
Happy
Mean
Genuine
Hypocrite
Funny
Sad
For each one of those words, I know the image of someone entered your mind. That is the impression you have of them which in turn represents their reputation.
What words do you want to be associated with? What description do you want attached to your name? Remember “Your Reputation is Everything”.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Enough is Enough!
I am so tired of dealing with people that say one thing and do another. Make commitments that they don’t keep. Offer something and then not follow up. I am so disgusted with this, that I am finally making a commitment to myself and all those reading this blog that for me “Enough is enough!”
I am no longer going to tolerate lack of responsiveness in others. I am going to call out people who tell me they will get back to me, give me a call or volunteer information only to never be heard from again. I am going to find someone else to buy from, sell to and work with.
My guess is if you are one of these people, you are not reading this blog. I bet those of you honoring me with your time are just as frustrated as I am. I imagine my followers are the exact opposite of those I described in the opening. In fact, let me speculate who you are as my reader.
You make promises and then keep them. You don’t need a signed agreement to stay true. Your word is far more valuable.
You offer great customer service. You look for ways to solve problems, overcome obstacles and value relationships.
You treat your employees like gold. People like to work for you and refer friends and family to you often.
You understand the importance of being on time, responding to emails in a suitable manner, and calling people back when you say you will. And, on those unforeseen circumstances that throw you off tract, you begin your communication with the words, “I am sorry.” You are quick to apologize for being delayed or the rare missed deadline.
Right now I imagine you are picturing those people that you cannot count on. Images of those who have let you down, given false promises, and continued on without any realization they are wrong. You know exactly who they are.
So, I ask you “How long will you continue to tolerate this disrespectful attitude?” When will you join me in saying “Enough is enough”?
Let us together dedicate ourselves to only associating with people that care, keep commitments, value honesty and integrity. Let’s walk away from people that do not have the same high standards as we do.
For once and for all – Enough is enough!
I am no longer going to tolerate lack of responsiveness in others. I am going to call out people who tell me they will get back to me, give me a call or volunteer information only to never be heard from again. I am going to find someone else to buy from, sell to and work with.
My guess is if you are one of these people, you are not reading this blog. I bet those of you honoring me with your time are just as frustrated as I am. I imagine my followers are the exact opposite of those I described in the opening. In fact, let me speculate who you are as my reader.
You make promises and then keep them. You don’t need a signed agreement to stay true. Your word is far more valuable.
You offer great customer service. You look for ways to solve problems, overcome obstacles and value relationships.
You treat your employees like gold. People like to work for you and refer friends and family to you often.
You understand the importance of being on time, responding to emails in a suitable manner, and calling people back when you say you will. And, on those unforeseen circumstances that throw you off tract, you begin your communication with the words, “I am sorry.” You are quick to apologize for being delayed or the rare missed deadline.
Right now I imagine you are picturing those people that you cannot count on. Images of those who have let you down, given false promises, and continued on without any realization they are wrong. You know exactly who they are.
So, I ask you “How long will you continue to tolerate this disrespectful attitude?” When will you join me in saying “Enough is enough”?
Let us together dedicate ourselves to only associating with people that care, keep commitments, value honesty and integrity. Let’s walk away from people that do not have the same high standards as we do.
For once and for all – Enough is enough!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
How Does Your Thought Garden Grow?
Many of you know I am in the middle of writing a book on the law of attraction which I have entitled In-Joy.
Just today, an excerpt of the book has been published on line as a short article entitled Your Thought Garden. Below are the first two paragraphs of the piece.
Your Thought Garden: “As more and more people begin to understand the power of their mind and how their thoughts manifest into reality, the greater the need to find ways to cultivate what they think about. The Law of Attraction clearly states what you think about you bring about. Yet, how can we control our thinking in such a manner that we will be able to clearly focus on attracting only what we want in life and steer clear of what we don't?
In order to help you with this concept, picture a garden. This garden has nothing planted in it yet: just rich, tilled soil ready for the seeds to be placed in the ground. Now imagine sectioning off your garden and placing markers in the dirt that are ready to be labeled. Consider this your Thought Garden.”
If this intrigues you, I would be honored if you let me know what you think by reading it in its entirety at http://ezinearticles.com/?Your-Thought-Garden&id=5052909
Just today, an excerpt of the book has been published on line as a short article entitled Your Thought Garden. Below are the first two paragraphs of the piece.
Your Thought Garden: “As more and more people begin to understand the power of their mind and how their thoughts manifest into reality, the greater the need to find ways to cultivate what they think about. The Law of Attraction clearly states what you think about you bring about. Yet, how can we control our thinking in such a manner that we will be able to clearly focus on attracting only what we want in life and steer clear of what we don't?
In order to help you with this concept, picture a garden. This garden has nothing planted in it yet: just rich, tilled soil ready for the seeds to be placed in the ground. Now imagine sectioning off your garden and placing markers in the dirt that are ready to be labeled. Consider this your Thought Garden.”
If this intrigues you, I would be honored if you let me know what you think by reading it in its entirety at http://ezinearticles.com/?Your-Thought-Garden&id=5052909
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Give Yourself a Standing Ovation!
Over the past few months I have been studying the behaviors of highly successful people and comparing them to those individuals that just can’t seem to find their way. The more I observed both groups the stronger I felt about one thing. We are the only one that can motivate ourselves. No one else can do the job for us. Our personal happiness lies within.
Now don’t get me wrong. I believe we can be influenced by outside forces. In fact I pride myself on living my life focused on being a positive influence to others. But I am only able to inspire someone. They then in turn self-motivate.
As I began to explore this notion of self-motivation, I realized something that very few of us have ever experienced…receiving a standing ovation. That particular sign of recognition is reserved for entertainers, athletes, and politicians. The common guy like you and me doesn’t seem to do anything worthy of such acknowledgment. It’s not that we don’t accomplish heroic deeds. I have many colleagues that save lives every day. I know tons of people that make a difference by simply sharing their smile with others.
The more I thought about this special method of recognizing great feats, the more I thought about internalizing the process. So I started to self-motivate by patting myself on the back for my accomplishments. Whether it is working with a client, presenting to a new audience, or finishing a great run, I stop for a moment and silently offer myself praise. I picture the standing ovation for a job well done. And, every time I do this, guess what happens? I smile. The very notion of receiving a standing ovation for my work, who I am, and what I stand for brings joy to me. It encourages me to keep going when I am not feeling so positive.
So, do yourself a favor. For the rest of this week, give yourself a standing ovation for the little things and the big things you do well. Then comment back on how many times you smiled in the process.
Now don’t get me wrong. I believe we can be influenced by outside forces. In fact I pride myself on living my life focused on being a positive influence to others. But I am only able to inspire someone. They then in turn self-motivate.
As I began to explore this notion of self-motivation, I realized something that very few of us have ever experienced…receiving a standing ovation. That particular sign of recognition is reserved for entertainers, athletes, and politicians. The common guy like you and me doesn’t seem to do anything worthy of such acknowledgment. It’s not that we don’t accomplish heroic deeds. I have many colleagues that save lives every day. I know tons of people that make a difference by simply sharing their smile with others.
The more I thought about this special method of recognizing great feats, the more I thought about internalizing the process. So I started to self-motivate by patting myself on the back for my accomplishments. Whether it is working with a client, presenting to a new audience, or finishing a great run, I stop for a moment and silently offer myself praise. I picture the standing ovation for a job well done. And, every time I do this, guess what happens? I smile. The very notion of receiving a standing ovation for my work, who I am, and what I stand for brings joy to me. It encourages me to keep going when I am not feeling so positive.
So, do yourself a favor. For the rest of this week, give yourself a standing ovation for the little things and the big things you do well. Then comment back on how many times you smiled in the process.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Even God Has Competition
I was recently talking with a client of mine, Laura Betts – Owner of HyperbaricsRx (www.HyperbaricsRx.com). We were discussing how different business owners react when mentioning their competition. We agreed that these reactions vary from denying they even have competition to the rarely seen admiration. I believe the way a leader feels about their competitors is a true reflection of their integrity. Heck, even God has competition…poor guy has to go up against the Devil every day!
How do you respond when someone mentions your rivalry? Do you immediately dismiss their presence; or, do you find yourself defensive? Is your response quick and negative; or, respectful of their contributions to the marketplace? However you find yourself reacting, I guarantee it is being evaluated, judged and filed away in the memory of others.
I am not quite sure why more leaders choose an adverse attitude toward those who offer the same services. I can only think it stems from jealously and lack of self-confidence. Yet, we all have competition. And, if you use it correctly it can only enhance your status within your industry.
Take a moment and think about your top three competitors. Consider these questions:
What is one thing I do better than they do?
What is one thing they do better than me and how can I learn from it?
How can I replicate their best practices?
In order to be competitive today, you need to know your competitors. But, you do not need to belittle, degrade or be disrespectful of their offerings. Doing this is like taking out a mirror and seeing an ugly reflection.
Want to really compete? Be better than the other guy, offer greater value, exceed expectations, respond quicker, build loyalty and treat every customer like your only customer.
I bet this is just what God does.
How do you respond when someone mentions your rivalry? Do you immediately dismiss their presence; or, do you find yourself defensive? Is your response quick and negative; or, respectful of their contributions to the marketplace? However you find yourself reacting, I guarantee it is being evaluated, judged and filed away in the memory of others.
I am not quite sure why more leaders choose an adverse attitude toward those who offer the same services. I can only think it stems from jealously and lack of self-confidence. Yet, we all have competition. And, if you use it correctly it can only enhance your status within your industry.
Take a moment and think about your top three competitors. Consider these questions:
What is one thing I do better than they do?
What is one thing they do better than me and how can I learn from it?
How can I replicate their best practices?
In order to be competitive today, you need to know your competitors. But, you do not need to belittle, degrade or be disrespectful of their offerings. Doing this is like taking out a mirror and seeing an ugly reflection.
Want to really compete? Be better than the other guy, offer greater value, exceed expectations, respond quicker, build loyalty and treat every customer like your only customer.
I bet this is just what God does.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Furthering Oprah’s Cause
I am sure many of you know of Oprah Winfrey’s mission to stop texting and driving. She seems to be single-handedly changing the habit of many Americans. As I support her efforts, I would like help further her cause and add: Stop Texting and Talking!
For so many years we have grown to pride ourselves on multi-tasking. In fact, it is often a skill set employers look for when hiring. Yet, we rarely search to employ someone that is a terrific listener and has the ability to stay present throughout an entire conversation.
Think about it…how many times do you allow yourself to be interrupted to see who is beeping on your phone? When was the last time you sat through an entire meeting and never looked at your blackberry? What about the last phone call you needed the caller to repeat what they were saying because you were busy finishing off a text message?
What about those kids today? I am frankly appalled at the number of parents that allow phones at the dinner table. Or, walk through a mall, grocery store or even Disney World with their son or daughter tailing behind because they can’t stop checking messages. Get into a car full of teens and you will experience silence. Each one of them will either have plugs in their ears or be completely absorbed reading the latest Facebook posting.
For the next 48 hours don’t just stop texting and driving…stop texting completely when you are in the presence of another human being! Don’t allow yourself to become distracted by the beeping or flashing of that small communication tool that is starting to take over your life. And, ask those around you to do the same. Try these behaviors instead:
• Leave your phone in your bag, pocket or room.
• Turn off the sound – no vibrating either!
• Take the time to actually look at people when they speak.
• Acknowledge others with a smile.
• Listen to the words they say and respond accordingly.
Together we can support Oprah’s cause and promise no texting while driving. We can then make a further commitment to live a life of personal interaction by staying present in each moment that we have with one another.
Please join me in my effort to bring back a society that places value on social interaction not just social media!
For so many years we have grown to pride ourselves on multi-tasking. In fact, it is often a skill set employers look for when hiring. Yet, we rarely search to employ someone that is a terrific listener and has the ability to stay present throughout an entire conversation.
Think about it…how many times do you allow yourself to be interrupted to see who is beeping on your phone? When was the last time you sat through an entire meeting and never looked at your blackberry? What about the last phone call you needed the caller to repeat what they were saying because you were busy finishing off a text message?
What about those kids today? I am frankly appalled at the number of parents that allow phones at the dinner table. Or, walk through a mall, grocery store or even Disney World with their son or daughter tailing behind because they can’t stop checking messages. Get into a car full of teens and you will experience silence. Each one of them will either have plugs in their ears or be completely absorbed reading the latest Facebook posting.
For the next 48 hours don’t just stop texting and driving…stop texting completely when you are in the presence of another human being! Don’t allow yourself to become distracted by the beeping or flashing of that small communication tool that is starting to take over your life. And, ask those around you to do the same. Try these behaviors instead:
• Leave your phone in your bag, pocket or room.
• Turn off the sound – no vibrating either!
• Take the time to actually look at people when they speak.
• Acknowledge others with a smile.
• Listen to the words they say and respond accordingly.
Together we can support Oprah’s cause and promise no texting while driving. We can then make a further commitment to live a life of personal interaction by staying present in each moment that we have with one another.
Please join me in my effort to bring back a society that places value on social interaction not just social media!
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