Does Your Reputation Shine?

User photo not available By Susan Battley in Leadership
Published: Tuesday, 22 September 09 - 08:31 AM (GMT -05:00)
Last Updated: Wednesday, 23 September 09 - 10:41 PM (GMT -05:00)

I recently saw Shakespeare's play Othello performed in Manhattan by an A-list cast.  

Personal reputation - its importance, use and abuse - are major themes that drive the play's plot.  For example, the treacherous villain Iago exploits his (false) reputation as an honest man to deceive Othello and everyone else. 

Shades of Bernie Madoff! 

Othello says about reputation :
Who steals my purse steals trash....
But he that filches from me my good name
Robs me of that which not enriches him
And makes me poor indeed.
                                     -  Act 3, Scene 3

Reputation is a success-critical asset.  Once people have formed an impression of you, it can be very difficult, if not possible, to change their minds.  So you need to be mindful that your actions polish and promote your reputation at every turn.

Four Reputation Questions to Ask Yourself
  • Are you known professionally and by whom?
  • What are you known for?
  • Is your reputation consistent with the professional image you want to convey?
  • How are you enhancing and extending your reputation?
As a final thought, remember that whenever you put your reputation in the hands of others - for example, business partners, vendors, consultants, recruiters and independent contractors -  you should be sure they are worthy and capable to protect your good name. 
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