We’ve all had it drilled into us that everyone has flaws, and that makes us unique. But it’s not quite that simple when it comes to business and communicating! When you discover a flaw, you have a choice about how to address it. Shifting blame, ignoring it, covering it up – but it’s still a pig in a wig.
Even if covering up a problem makes you look better, it doesn’t help you be better. More often than not, clients can see right through the disguise. Think of the big bad wolf; masking himself as a sweet old grandma doesn’t make him a sweet old grandma. Underneath the disguise, there is still obvious sharp teeth and claws.
Good leaders know that there is no bigger mistake than trying to cover up or ignore a problem; they always have a way of coming to light. So, choose to be part of the solution instead of being part of the problem.
How? Here are a few things to think about.
Analyse your client’s environment, so they know where to focus their efforts. Listen to feedback and take their message seriously.
Plan, plan, plan!
Once you recognise a problem, develop a strategy on how you’ll tackle it. Lay out goals and actions that will demonstrate a genuine strive to do better. But be very specific about how you will achieve your goals. Problems can pop up when you lay out general statements.
Offer solutions.
We all know you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but that can’t be said for humans! Work on creating a change rather than covering up mistakes. Your actions speak louder than words, be the pioneer of change.
Nobody expects you to be perfect.
Share the journey and be transparent. Your brand doesn’t stop at the things that make you money. People want to feel a genuine connection – and that means improvement!
