Your reputation is your most valuable asset.

Always do what you say you will do.

 

The critical word in the statement above is “always,” one slip up or misstep and your credibility can be shot.

 

Your reputation is the opinion everyone else but you shares about you.

You only have influence over your reputation, you never control it.

 

 

“A reputation is an animal designed by committee. You give birth to it, but the way it develops depends entirely on the actions of others.” Alex Lickerman

 

 

When you run a small business, every client is the custodian of your reputation.

 

DDB Design (the building business I have run for 33 years) is a “word-of-mouth” business. It relies heavily on a good reputation and direct referrals to attract new clients.

 

A building company is only as good as it is last project. If that project did not meet or exceed the clients’ expectations, its reputation becomes tarnished and what could have been a “raving fan” ends up being a dissatisfied advocate.

 

For a business that relies on word-of-mouth referrals, a good reputation is its most valuable form of marketing.

 

Integrity and reliability are the cornerstone of DDB’s business culture. Our number one priority is to always do what we say we will do, no exceptions.

 

 

“A good reputation shouldn’t be an end in itself, but rather a natural result of your striving to be the person you most want to be.” Alex Lickerman

 

 

When you do not follow through on a promise or commitment, the person you hurt the most is yourself. Letting yourself down by not honouring your commitments only builds regret and regret is a bitter pill to swallow that leaves a bitter aftertaste.

 

Regret is there to remind you of the opportunities you missed and the time and trust you wasted by not doing what you said you would.

 

It is all about staying true to your word, which is easier said than done – but that is the point.

 

 

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is a great accomplishment.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

 

 

Below is a summary of the positive effects of a good reputation.

 

1. It opens doors at work and in social settings.
2. It smooths out your professional journey up through the ranks by presenting you with opportunities you would not have without it.
3. It gives you a sense of accomplishment each time you honour your commitments.
4. It builds your self-esteem.
5. It is a constant source of internal motivation.
6. It sets a standard and gives you something to live up to.
7. It inspires others.
8. It is essential for effective leadership.
9.  

“When you make a choice and don’t follow through, that in itself is a choice.” Unknown

 

Thanks For reading,