I like to think I’m trustworthy. I’m well-known for it and generally people (and in particular my clients) say they like the fact that they know [...]]]>

Oscar Wilde’s play on words for the title of one of his most famous writings really puts the subject of today’s blog in a nutshell…

I like to think I’m trustworthy. I’m well-known for it and generally people (and in particular my clients) say they like the fact that they know they will get my honest opinion on anything they ask, sometimes to the point of brutality! All I ask in return is for that honesty to be reciprocated, which isn’t too much to ask, is it?

A good friend of mine recently parted company with their employer because they became frustrated with their dishonesty. The MD was constantly lying, including to some staff, suppliers and customers. Not just the usual “Cheque’s in the post” kind of thing that some feel is acceptable, but serious stuff about finance, staff issues and workloads. Because of the position they held this started to impact on my friend’s reputation, which could have ultimately damaged their career – it was time to move on, even without another position to go to.

The interesting and somewhat ironic element to this is that the same MD can often be heard locally on his soapbox about the importance of honesty!

I struggle with dishonest people, socially or in business and I would ALWAYS rather that people come to the point if there is an issue. That way, things can be dealt with and everyone can move on.

Besides, lying is hazardous. Not only do you need to have the memory of an elephant, you also need to hope that the affected parties never hold a conversation about that subject. That is something which is virtually impossible to control, especially within a local business community. Once you get caught out you lose all credibility, it’s as simple as that – and in business that can be fatal.

“What a tangled web we weave when first we venture to deceive”

It’s something that my mum used to say and it has stayed with me. I’ve tried hard not only to stick to it but also to instil it in those around me. My stepsons know that the very worst thing they can possibly do is lie and it will be this which will always get them into more trouble than whatever else they do.

Being wrong doesn’t matter. Not knowing the answer doesn’t matter. Trying and failing doesn’t matter… those things can all be sorted out.

Not being honest (or “Earnest”) does!