Wanted: Sincere People

Today, everyone seems to be out for themselves. Yet - it is those among us who genuinely care about others who garner the most respect.

Years ago, I had a boss who I admired and have tried ever since to emulate. In looking back, I remember that he had this one quality above all else: sincerity.

Like you, I've also had bosses who were insincere, self centered, uncaring and hypocritical. Many were also deeply insecure. Some were narcissistic (having an exaggerated sense of self-importance).

The differences between these two types of people affect all relationships in business and life.

I have learned over the years to ignore people's education, technical skills, wealth and position of authority.

I want to know, instead, if they are a person of good character. Can they be trusted? Are they reliable?

What label do your colleagues, managers and friends fall under? I've created a list of 8 key areas and listed the traits between "Fake" and "Sincere".

1. Listening

Fake: Lack empathy and do not listen to our concerns.

Sincere: Ask about our health and concerns, then listen.

2. Compassion?

Fake: Put themselves first and their employees last.

Sincere: Fight for everyone in their sphere.?

3. Respect

Fake: Respect only power and money.

Sincere: Respect everybody.

4. Judgement

Fake: Criticize and judge others to make themselves look better.

Sincere: Praise and support their team.

5. Opinion

Fake: Gossip and steal ideas from others while claiming these ideas as their own.

Sincere: Have their own opinions and ideas.

6. Self promotion

Fake: Sing their own praises and try to impress people.

Sincere: Confident in themselves, are humble and do not boast.

7. Action

Fake: Only talk about what they'll do with no intension of following through.

Sincere: Do their best to act on plans and promises.

8. Caring

Fake: Only help others who can help them.

Sincere: Helpful while expecting nothing in return.

A number of years ago, a man named Jeffrey Epstein (who later died in prison) approached billionaire Bill Gates with a proposal. Epstein claimed he wanted to help Gates with his "Gates Foundation" designed to fight poverty and disease around the world.

He had access to "trillions" of dollars, said Epstein, hoping to garner interest from Gates. Bill Gates met and listened to Epstein - but later, Epstein would reveal that he expected a fee for his services.

He was, in other words, insincere. Gates walked away.

It is what we must also do when faced with insincerity. To court or encourage the hypocrites among us is to invite endless, toxic relationships.

I have learned that trying to change such people is impossible. Their insincerity is within their DNA. Instead, I accept them for who they are, and take their statements with a grain of salt.?

The pandemic has made many people selfish. If you run a team, own a company or you're in any position of responsibility - being sincere will make you stand out, because...

It's not about seniority. It's not about title. It's about whether you give a damn.