We admire companies and this is reflected in our choices as consumers, investors and in other forms of business. But what about the managers that have influenced our own behaviours and performance? Our own reputation?
Many times we had no choice, but even then, they influenced us. Even if it was to never to be like them.
The following self-directed exercise will help you to reflect about those managers and mentors that shaped your own reputation.
- What gave them the reputation of being an excellent manager and/or mentor?
- What is that they did to earn that reputation?
Instructions:
Read through the following paragraph and then follow the necessary instructions.
‘’As all of us grow up and grow older, we have our own personal heroes and heroines – friends, teachers, coaches, idols and mentors. By their actions and their advice, they have influenced and inspired us. The people we admire give us courage and direction. They exemplified a positive reputation.
Take a moment to think about these special people. Perhaps it was a parent, a relative, a neighbour, a teacher, or an sports coach. Perhaps it was someone you did not know that well but who still had an influence on you.
How did they influence you to act in a more reputable manner and to be conscious of your own reputation?
Tell me how that person made a difference in your life and career. What were some of the qualities that made that person stand out from others around you?
What made them a reputable manager and person in your life and career?
Now answer the following questions:
- In remembering them, what do you see, hear or feel right now?
- How did those people affect your life right then?
- What did you admire most about these people?
- What is the most important contribution these people made to your life?
- How is your life affected right now by these people?
- List those qualities (Motivational attributes and characteristics) that made these people special for you.
Building a favourable reputation as a manager is a daily process of action. Becoming conscious of the impact and influence you have on others should become your own guiding beacon.
What will others say about you?