Be Honest With Yourself

What do people really think of you? We may think we know what others see as our personal brand, but it really doesn’t matter what we think. The only thing that matters is what they really think, and we must be honest with ourselves about this.

For example, I am well aware that as a retained search consultant, the marketplace will never confuse me for the biggest presence or the coolest guy in the room like some of my partners at McDermott + Bull. If I tried to be like them, I’d fail miserably. I have to acknowledge the approach that I consistently present to others in order to identify who they believe me to be — a consultant who takes an approach focused on culture fit and someone whose work in the nonprofit community is extremely important to him. This is how people know me to be, so I need to be honest with myself about how others really see me. 

I encourage each of you to honestly analyze what others truly believe about you and your brand, because you have already taught them what to believe. And really, each of us can only be our best selves when we stay true to our nature.

Thanks for sharing time with me; as always, I welcome your feedback. Please feel free to pass this message along to others who may find value.

If you would like to read previous chapters in this series, please visit: Jeff Black’s Blog.

Of course, please think of me if you (or companies you know) are adding strategic new talent to your leadership, either permanent or interim.