Trust the intent not the optics.

#NamasteTrump in Ahmedabad will have to match the #HowdyModi rally in Houston which was a true spectacle in optics. 

The true definition of “optics” is the scientific study of light and vision. “Optics” is the branch of physics which involves the behaviour and properties of light. However, a different use of the word optics has been used in management and politics for many years, meaning “appearance” or “perception”. It is well established that optics, the way people perceive things, are important to success in a work environment. 

The more positively people perceive an organisation, the greater respect you earn, and the easier it is to get things done. The more of your successes people are aware of, the more valuable you become as an organization and when you can combine quality performance with positive optics, everyone wins - you and your organization. 

However there are multiple instances of optics being used only for “appearance” or “perception” management. Optics without intention would count for nothing. We need to go beyond optics and move to decision making that will actually move the needle. The intent for change is as important as the optics of getting the right message across. 

Let’s face it for all the feel-good effect of such optics in conveying sincerity & bonhomie, their utilitarian value in bending the arc of the broader relationship is somewhat limited. Trust the intent not the optics.