Why Reality > Reputation

Why Reality > Reputation

In this latest Everyday Equation, I focus on a trend I see at many organizations – second or third-hand commentary (that may not be true or current) that can impact an individual’s career growth. If that’s an organization’s culture, then it’s really hard to for people to feel comfortable trying new things and making mistakes.

If we truly want people to get real-time feedback, learn and apply that feedback, then we need to create a culture that gives people the space to grow -- and not continue to hold that person to something that happened years before.

As leaders, we can build a more inclusive culture by questioning that second- or third-hand commentary with: “When did you last see that person behave that way?” or “Was that something you personally saw or experienced?”

By asking these questions, we can help our organizations’ cultures become more inclusive, more dynamic and equitable as people feel that they can continue to grow and develop and be recognized for it – not held back by an outdated perspective. It’s why Reality > Reputation. #EverydayEquations


Completely agree Dan Helfrich, something that always helps considering variety of situations we deal with.

Thomas D. Williamson

Retired M&A and enterprise transformation leader. Adult literacy volunteer, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute participant, traveler.

3 年

Well said. Told the participants in the plenary on Consulting Forward at the AYDE session this morning that everyday equations weren't static!

Richard Mascolo

Strategic IT Leader | Catalyst for Organizational Growth

3 年

Dan Helfrich great post, having a zero fault mentality can be detrimental to an individual and/or an organization. I have seen where high performing individuals or teams struggle with #impostersyndrome and search for grounding and honesty to keep them moving. Creating a culture where reality is greater than reputation and discouraging the rumor mill is a solid approach to aiding individuals and teams in achieving new heights. Allowing folks to make mistakes, learn from those mistakes and to move forward is key.

Prof Maruf Islam PhD

NMF Founder and CEO, University Teaching, Int'l Development, SDGs; Focusing: Climate Action, Gender Equality, Environment, Good Health, Quality Education, and Well-being for PWD & MH; ex UN (FAO and WFP), and ex CARE USA

3 年
Ryan Pedwell

Financial Crime Risk Management | Managed Services | National Young Leader Award Recipient 2022 | EDI Advocate

3 年

Such a great article/video! Can't agree more that we need to focus more attention on reality (what is currently being delivered) versus someone's prior reputation.

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