Your reputation is very important for a lot of reasons. People like to be around those they can trust and enjoy being around. This holds true in the social setting as well as the business setting. A great reputation is built on trust, integrity, honesty and sincerity on every level of interaction.

“It takes many good deeds to build a good reputation,
and only one bad one to lose it.”

– Benjamin Franklin

It doesn’t matter what you do in life, it is important to take a minute and reflect upon your reputation and how it affects those around you – in the workplace and as an individual. Review these simple guidelines that can help you inspire the hearts and minds of your customers, referral sources, employees and strategic partners.

Be the best that you can be: It is important that everything that you attempt is done with the best intentions and to the best of your abilities. To do this, it is good to establish core values and a clear vision for yourself and those that surround you. By aiming high, and always doing your best, the integrity of your service, and the sincerity of your actions will be recognized and respected by your family, your coworkers, and your customers for the long term.

Admit when you messed up and make it right: This is something that we all learn at an early age. If we make a mistake, it’s best to admit the error and learn from it! In the workplace, a coworker, boss, or a customer will be more apt to respect your honesty and continue the working relationship with you as you acknowledge that you did not deliver as promised. This honesty will most likely sustain your relationships as long as it does not become a habit!

Put your customer first: A company that provides GREAT customer service stands out above the rest. One must never forget that the customer is the reason that all of us are in business. Take the time, every day, to remind yourself and your coworkers, as to the importance of providing the very best customer service – one customer at a time. And smile as you share this with them.

A good reputation is one of the most valuable assets you can own.  It is also one of the easiest assets to lose and the hardest to recover. Follow these “old-fashioned” guidelines, and you will soon have the reputation for being “a great person to know and to do business with” by your existing and potential customers on the horizon! And, we hope that you will  be pleased with yourself as well!