Honesty and Authenticity in Business

How important are honesty and authenticity in business relationships? We value these things highly.

What happens when one party intentionally withholds information, or is deceptive?
The result is reputational harm and broken trust. It’s far better to disclose a tough truth than it is to rebuild relationships and damaged reputation.

The persistent physical separation we are experiencing must not be used as an excuse to avoid doing the right thing because it’s hard. Avoidance creates conflict because it is perceived as negative.

Brene Brown defines integrity as doing what’s right instead of what’s easy, fast or fun.

Some business conversations are tough to have, but have them anyway.

Some changes, even necessary changes, are hard to explain, but do your best to explain them anyway.

Everyone is experiencing change right now. Change is often an uncontrolled circumstance, but we can choose to meet it with empathy and courage.

Change can be an opportunity to strengthen relationships when we value honesty, mutual respect, and fairness.

Delivering a tough truth?

Prepare in advance to share the facts, explain what happens next, and be clear about what you want or need from the other party and when. Schedule a personal call or video call if a socially-distanced personal meeting is not an option. Allow the other party to give you feedback, ask questions, and where able, contribute to the process.

Receiving a tough truth?

Keep calm and ask clarifying questions about the facts that were shared, what happens next, and what is needed and expected on both sides. Participation empowers collaboration, and by focusing on curiosity and open ended questions, you can maintain calm and perspective regarding the situation and the process, even if it feels uncomfortable.

When in doubt, take the high road. The view is always better from the high road.