Honesty is the best policy.
I think we all grew up with that quote.
Whether it’s posted near the blackboard inside our classroom or written on a random page of our journal, we are oftentimes reminded of the true value of being honest in our lives.
Which in fact is quite valid because practicing honesty builds integrity and credibility, things we need in order to fully succeed in life. And trust me, you wouldn’t want to sacrifice those in the long run.
Sadly though, not all people welcome honesty with open arms. At times, no matter how well-meaning a person is, his/her honest remarks are taken as an attack.
While the issues and experiences of others are theirs to carry (which actually determine how they see the world and react to it, your message included), you should not burden yourself by doubting your actions if your intentions are pure.
At the end of the day, you know yourself best and you deserve to be honest not only with your words but also on how you choose to live life in general.
Take to heart though that your privilege goes the same for others and the key here is to practice respect while communicating honestly as we set and maintain necessary boundaries.
Think about the last honest conversation you had: how did it go?
Did the other party take it openly?
Or were you accused of being heartless, insensitive and outright rude?
While you can’t control the way others will react towards your honesty, you can always fine tune your way of delivering your message from your authentic self.
Here’s how you can be honest without being rude:
Most of the time, people get angry when caught off by surprise. Prevent this by preparing the person as you ask for permission if you can give your honest opinion. This gives the other party the time to think and consider his current space as to whether he is receptive towards it or isn’t ready at the moment. Either way, it will also give you an idea on whether to proceed or park it first to avoid conflict.
2. Clarify your intentions.
In order to avoid any form of misconception, it is important to state your reasons why you want to have that honest conversation and which space you’re coming from. Doing so allows the other party to loosen up and feel more safe and at ease to receiving your honest feedback.
3. Deliver your message mindfully.
How you structure your sentences and your choice of words can affect your delivery’s impact. Don’t forget your tone of voice and body language too. My tip here is that: if you were going to say the same thing to your 5 year old self, how will you do so coming from a space of love and genuine concern? Start from there. P.S. be clear and concise so that the key message doesn’t drown along the way.
4. Take time to listen and ask for feedback.
Being honest is also a two-way street. So best if you lend your ears as you ask about the feelings of the other person concerned. Once more, assure the other person that you will be open to listening and receiving feedback, much like how he/she did. Never block off what the other person has to say and never anticipate it as a form of attack. Be humble enough to allow yourself to know the impact of your message. Clarify and apologize if needed.
5. Ask how you can help out moving forward.
A gem of an effort indeed. It’s all about making the other person feel supported no matter what. Genuinely ask for what support you can offer and how can things be better for both of you moving forward. It’s not just about being able to say your piece, but rather using that conversation as a springboard to improving things around (and within) you .
Always remember that there’s nothing wrong with being honest.
However, know that you have a choice as to not come off as blunt by becoming more mindful of your words and actions.
That’s part of becoming your own #bestmeever .
People don’t really buy your products; they buy you and your results.
So if that’s the case, your credibility is at stake.
Your credibility determines how many people will trust and support you, how many brands and organizations would want to partner with you and how many more opportunities will open up to you, regardless of the industry you’re in.
And when we talk about credibility, it goes beyond the number of followers, engagements or likes on social media.
It’s all about being authentic, practicing with integrity and delivering consistent results.
1.) Beef up your credentials
Be an expert in your field of choice by engaging in continuous learning and growth. Study necessary disciplines and allow yourself to be certified and trained by reputable institutions so don’t forget to do your research first. Aim to become a thought leader in your field by writing high-value articles for websites and give expert advice and talks to communities that are in alignment with your industry. Be as focused as possible because at the end of the day, you can’t be everything everyone else expects you to be.
2.) Don’t ever fake it
I’ll say it again: you’ll never make it if you fake it. Don’t ever lie to the people who are genuinely supporting you. Authenticity is key. Don’t say you’re earning millions and millions consistently but have unpaid debts. Don’t talk about professionalism when you are running away from your own responsibilities. Speak and live your truth. It would eventually come out anyway. Don’t let your lies stemming from wanting to look good and perfect in the eyes of others tarnish your reputation eventually. Consider what matters more.
3.) Honor your commitments
You are as good as your word. Don’t ever make promises that you can’t keep. Your lack of commitment reflects on your character. So it’s best that you always deliver what is due and do away with the unnecessary drama and excuses. At the end of the day, it’s not just about you, how you feel and the situation you’re in; it’s also about the other person/party affected by your actions or lack there of.
4.) Amplify your results
Let your work speak for you. Deliver consistently desired results and allow your client’s testimonials amplify the work that you do. Always strive to get feedback and seek ways on how you can improve your service better. Remember that results go beyond the numbers; it’s also how you manage your relationships and grow in harmony with them (and your output) in the process.
5.) Give your best always
Being your own #bestmeever always allows you to become a joy to work with as you grow with the work on hand. Be 100% present at all times and strive to achieve what is necessary no matter what it takes. At the end of the day, whatever yourself may be, celebrate with the people you work with and give yourself a pat on the back because you have given more than enough.
I hope these can help you build your credibility.
Simply because, your credibility sells.
So invest on it more.
