In my associations with professionals in both casual and business settings, I’ve taken the time to observe human nature. In the process, I’ve found that among those who are spot-on experts, there are two distinct types:
- Those who are always “on,” who are polished and can integrate what they do into every conversation. Their elevator speeches roll off their tongues like well oiled pieces of sales copy. Everything stays professional and there appears to be no chinks in their armor.
- Then there are those who tend to ask about you first. They show interest in you before they talk about themselves. They too know how to clearly explain their business, but they aren’t afraid to appear vulnerable or have a conversation that doesn’t revolve around business.
Of these two types of individuals, I am naturally drawn to the second group. Why? Because they feel real! They are authentic, and I can relate to them. Sure, they are successful in their businesses, but they still put their jackets on one sleeve at a time like I do.
It is their “human-ness” that endears me to them. Maybe it’s because I’m past being impressed with accolades, fame and awards. In my 20-year business career, I’ve found that it’s much easier to be a business success than it is to be an authentic human being.
Whether we’re talking live events or social media, I see these same types of business people. Time after time, I am drawn to real people who also happen to be successful at what they do. Maybe it’s because up until ten years ago, I was always “on” – always thinking business, dreaming business, talking business. And I wasn’t happy! Life is about so much more than business. It’s those who are authentic and realize that “life is one indivisible whole” (Ghandi) who really make an impact for good in the world.
What do you think?
Hi Marnie,
Great message….you are so right! Authenticity is what creates true and deep relationship. And relationships are what marketing is really all about when you get right down to it. Especially “in these economic times” people want to know, really know, who they are doing business with…it creates trust.
En-JOY!
Laura West
Hi,
Thanks for the post. You couldn’t be more right on! “It’s not business it’s personal.” I work in the baseball and nutrition industry and the market share I have developed is because of the effort I have put into knowing what I can do to help them. The money I make is a by product of thatn not the other way around. It’s what I can do to help them!
Regards
Mark Swierbinski
Marnie, I loved reading your thoughts about how you have evolved in connecting with people on such an incredibly authentic level….looking beyond all the trappings of their “real -world” successes to the *real* people they really are…
Isn’t it a beautiful thing when we connect on that heart and soul level?
Suzanne
Marnie, you are so right about this. I had not thought about it being easier to be a business success than to be an authentic human being, but that’s a perfect description. I have found that it takes a lot more courage to be vulnerable than to “shine” as a business success…and then when I do, I have better connections, and, frankly, I like myself better. 🙂
Nina!
Marnie; I like authenticity because everyone is learning. The world changes at a fast pace and no one is really an expert. They might know more than I do, but we all have unique wonderfulness.
For instance I consider you to be very successful. I like reading your messages because they remind me that choices are ours where ever we may be in life. Your comment, “I’ve found that it’s much easier to be a business success than it is to be an authentic human being,” is enlightening because I find you to be a very authentic human.
Keep writing, speaking, and helping others.