On Doing Whatever it Takes

I polled a number of my clients and associates recently asking them, "What’s the most common ethical dilemma in your industry?" It boiled down to this: "Do whatever it takes to get the job."In some industries it was misrepresenting capabilities. In some it was promising one level of product or service and then switching to a lesser quality or quantity. In some it was low-balling bids and then charging extra for contract details. Many rationalize, “That’s just how you have to play the game.” If that’s true, then you are contributing to unethical (and maybe illegal) practices. Repeat this: Starting with me, quality, honesty and a fair price will be the standard for getting and keeping work. For more tips and information, visit http://www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Saying No to Your Own Ambitions

The national conference is in less than a week. There is no way you can get the booth built, write the sales scripts, and prepare the session you’ve agreed to give. You have three customer call backs to do today and a demo that will take up most of tomorrow. Why did you ever agree to do the conference? Now you see nothing but stressful, sleepless nights ahead of you. Just say, “No.” There is a difference between setting stretch goals for yourself and being unrealistic. The former is a challenge. The latter is a lie. Not only does it set you up for failure but it misleads and disappoints the people who depend on you. Repeat this: Starting with me, honest and realistic self-assessment will determine schedules and obligations. For more tips and information, visit http://www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Saying No to Your Loved Ones

The subject of far too many TV shows and movies is the dad (usually) who disappoints his child by promising to be there and then letting work get in the way. If this happens to you more than a few times a year, you have a balance problem. But short of that, there are times when you have to just say, “No” to your loved ones. Here’s how to do it with a minimum of damage. First anticipate, and don’t promise if you’re not sure you can deliver. Second, as early as possible, communicate directly with your loved one. Be honest and direct. Reaffirm your love. Third, after the missed event, inquire about it with genuine interest. Repeat this: Starting with me, family relationships will always be valued more highly than work. For more tips and information, visit http://www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Saying No to Coworkers

“You wouldn’t mind covering for me on Tuesday, would you, buddy? I’ve got tickets to the big game and I’m due some sick time, anyway.” What do you do when faced with this dilemma? Assuming you would mind or that you’ve got too much of your own work to do to cover for your “buddy,” what do you do? Just say, “No.” Here’s how. “You know, I have just got too much scheduled for me to consider covering for you. I’m sorry I can’t help you out and I have to say, ‘No.’” Worried that you might ruin a friendship? Don’t be. A true friend doesn’t put you in the position of jeopardizing your own job for him. Repeat this: Starting with me, our work place will be one of integrity and personal responsibility. For more tips and information, visit http://www.swimstartingwithme.com.