Let Truth Be Your Guide
Most of us have faced communication challenges with others in our lifetime. Whether you are buying, selling or interviewing for a job, truthfulness and consistency are important models to adhere to.
The consistency of whatever it is you communicate becomes your brand and marketing campaign. Over time your reputation grows and people will come to rely on you. A high level of integrity will develop a larger clientele including a longer list of referrals and testimonials. Likewise, more people will place you as the lead candidate for a job which, in turn, enables your negotiating power.
Over the weekend, “Joanne” who does not adhere to the truth became trapped by the ever-growing disconnect in her messaging. The final blow was she admitted her inconsistency. But the amazing part was instead of an apology, Joanne accused “Susan” of upsetting her and of being thoughtless. So the question becomes does Susan beat herself up because she upset “Joanne”, does she maintain pride for sticking to the truth, or does she move on to find friends who better appreciate her?
Now assuming this was a question over friendship that you just answered, what would you do when this happens among family members?
I discussed this dilemma with a very good friend. We both agreed that as long as you remain true to who you are and play by a fair set of rules, you need to remain true to yourself and let the truth be your guide. In some cases whether it’s family, or you are buying or selling, or interviewing – you must know in advance your own rules for proceeding and strictly adhere to them.
If you compromise to be “the good guy” – you compromise yourself but not the negotiation. In this unique case, when you choose to compromise, the negotiation becomes a strict win for the other party.
Before you set out on entrepreneurial endeavors or sell to your prospect or relative, take a deep look inside to know what’s right, wrong and fair. Keep that list with you at all times. When you let truth be your guide, you will remain centered and in the preferred position.
Seek company of others who hold the same rules for business and meaningful relationships. This common sense guide is meant to help you find and enjoy the Smooth Sale!
