Communications expert Stacey Hanke knows what it takes to become a leader who creates impact and influences others. She has trained over 15,000 executives to influence, persuade, sell, or simply effectively communicate face-to-face with a clear message.
In a recent article for Entrepreneur, Stacey talks about the importance of protecting your professional reputation and outlines four common mistakes that put a person’s reputation on the line. She says in today’s online world, “employees, customers, prospects and peers are everywhere,” and only through consistent behaviours, both in and out of the office, can you truly build authentic and trusting relationships and become the leader you want to be.
Below is a summary of the four mistakes Stacey warns us to avoid, read the whole article here:
- Social media socializes the real you.
Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and more — these online social media platforms create a way for us to communicate with those we are connected to. We fail to realize that our reach doesn’t stop there. These mediums also communicate to the entire world who we are… A 2017 study found that 70 percent of employers use social media to review potential candidates. This number has increased 11 percent in the past 10 years, proving now more than ever that professionals who wish to manage their reputation must be mindful of what they post.
- Personal time is just professional time off the clock.
We all deserve to let our hair down when we step out of the office. We must remember, however, someone is always watching and that we must protect our professional reputation…Credibility is built on consistency. When your behavior is consistent in and out of the office, people will trust that is the real you. We’ve all heard the old saying, “It’s a small world.” It feels even smaller the moment we are anything but our best self and we run into someone we wish to impress. Be mindful and know that everyone is everywhere.
- You’re in the spotlight even when you’re not on stage.
Communication begins before you step on stage. Others determine who you are based on collective experiences and interactions with you when you aren’t in the spotlight. How you communicate in the office and in casual conversations is what will shape your reputation, not the moments you step on stage. How you behave and interact with peers determines your level of influence and the trust they have in you as a professional.
- It’s not a brand management campaign; it’s a way of life.
Our modern-day world doesn’t allow us to compartmentalize our lives. In today’s age of online observation, our reputations are broadcast for the world to see, which directly affects our bottom line…Fact is, professionals cannot manage their reputation through a one-time branding campaign. We must develop it through consistent behaviors that create trust in those who know and observe us. We can’t just say something is important; our actions must reflect it. We can’t tell employees to invest time and energy in customers but then fail to do the same for them. Reputations aren’t built on a “do what I say, not as I do” mentality. Consistency is key to credibility.
Interested in learning more about Stacey and what she can bring to your organization? Email us at [email protected].
