How to Build a Great Reputation
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How to Build a Great Reputation
Protect your reputation like it’s the most valuable asset you own. Because it is! A good image is priceless. Here are eight actions that you can take right now to build and defend your reputation:
Do what’s right. Values matter. Operate with integrity at all times. Period. That way, you’ll never have to look over your shoulder to see who’s watching.
Stand for something. Maintain the strength of your ideas and principles. If you don’t know what you stand for, you’re leaving it all to chance.
Be consistent. When your behavior is steady and reliable, your actions become predictable. This enables people to form an impression of you and anticipate future behavior.
Take pride in what you do. If you’re not proud of what you’re doing, either you’re not finished yet, or what you’re doing is not worthy of your best self.
Accept responsibility for your actions. If you wouldn’t be proud to see your words or actions in a headline, don’t say them or do them. If things go wrong despite your best intentions, don’t hide out. Face the music with an apology and your plan to do better.
Think before you act. Count to 10 before losing your temper, sending a flaming e-mail, or making a caustic remark — or you may live to regret it.
Be a good-reputation ambassador. Help others build and sustain their reputations by acknowledging their good works, by modeling good behaviors yourself, and by never engaging in reputation assassination.
Let your conscience be your guide. Listen to your conscience. That’s why you have one.
Your reputation is constantly evolving. Over time, the cumulative observations of your words AND actions form the basis of your reputation. And it’s not only what you do but also how others perceive your motives that often count most. Remember, while it takes significant time and effort to build a great reputation, you can destroy your standing in the blink of an eye.
Your reputation can be your best friend or worst enemy. It can open doors to marvelous opportunities or ensure that every door is slammed right in your face. What does your reputation say about you?
Do You Have a Good Reputation?
Additional Reading:
How to Repair Your Reputation
10 Elements of Courage
13 Ways to Be a Good Role Model
11 Traits of a Fair-Minded Person
13 Ways to Demonstrate Honesty
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Great article Mr. Sonnenberg. I would also add “Be Social.” It is critical that entrepreneurs, business executives, and professionals post and share on social media in a consistent manner. All the wonderful points you mention; do what’s right, stand for something, and accept responsibility earns relationship capital and builds credibility. But you also need to be consistently visible on social media.
Hi Rob
You bring up an interesting point. Here’s some food for thought …When some people think about their reputation, their first reaction is, how am I going to promote myself? I believe that their initial focus should be inward rather than outward. I know quite a few people who are quietly competent and they have awesome reputations. The truth is, when you’re a person of high moral character, you don’t have to shout it to the world –– everything you say carries the voice of credibility. But when you lack integrity, your soiled reputation will do the speaking for you.
Thanks for taking the time to write. Have an awesome day!
Best,
Frank
Thanks Mr, Sonnenberg, great words.
Did you talk about self control? I think it’s one of the great things one needs for a good reputation.
Hi Denis
I agree. Self-discipline is a very important character trait. In fact I wrote a piece about that subject “Why Self-Discipline Should Matter to You.”
Here’s the link if you’re interested:
https://www.franksonnenbergonline.com/blog/why-self-discipline-should-matter-to-you/
Best,
Frank
I like your list, and I like that you had “do what’s right” as your number one action for building a good reputation. Great insights!
Hey Ryan
Good catch!!! I’m so glad you saw that “do what’s right” came first. I believe that moral character is the DNA of success and happiness.
Have an awesome weekend!
Best,
Frank