Authenticity? Honesty?

During my last management seminar I had an interesting experience. Two days into the seminar a participant came to and said: “Günther let me tell you what I really like about your seminar. During your presentations you share a lot of personal experiences where you made mistakes and explained the consequences of those mistakes. You don’t stand there and tell us how well you have done everything, how smart you are and how stupid we are.” (His words)

Maybe that’s it. Let’s start with being of good character. Obviously, most of the time, we must do things well. If we make a mistake, we learn from it and don’t make the same mistake again.

Otherwise, let people see who you really are, your good side and your imperfections. Feel comfortable with yourself. That’s important. It is okay to have some ‘rough edges’. If it is not good enough for somebody else – tough luck. Although, I suspect that most people will appreciate others to be genuine; honestly communicating what they have done well and what, well, didn’t do too well.

I know some people, when I listen to them, they always have the answer to everything, always come out on top, always make money with their investments, always pretend to be on control and know what to do. Since I know that cannot be true I have to conclude that I actually don't know them.

If somebody is willing to talk about mistakes and failures I actually sense confidence. If I know shortcomings of people I believe I know them better and can judge them better as well.