A leader’s personal brand and their company’s reputation are shaped as much by the person’s actions outside the workplace as in the office. This is particularly true for a President or CEO who is often the “face” of their organization. As much as we may want to occasionally park our titles at the office and forget about them for an evening or weekend, we cannot. Our titles follow us wherever we go, oftentimes making us more visible in the community and subject to greater scrutiny.
Employees will forgive an executive’s occasional transgression because they know the person and recognize when an action is out of character. However, we only get one opportunity to make a first impression outside the workplace. One chance encounter at a ballgame, restaurant or social event can leave a lasting impression, be it good or bad.
Some executives consider this a burden, but others see it as an opportunity. Every encounter is a chance to improve a leader’s reputation, and that of their company, by making a positive impression on someone that is long lasting. All we need to do is exhibit situational awareness and make good choices…just as we attempt to do at work.
Be intentional about it…
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