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As for me.....I'll polarize.

I have been told by many of my friends and family that sometimes I am a tad brash. That my personality, while often refreshing, can sometimes be somewhat off-putting. I may occasionally push certain boundaries of acceptable communication.

This is often, paradoxically, a serious understatement of what they are actually thinking. What they are thinking is "You can really be an ass." See the irony....I would probably, in their shoes, just say "You can really be an ass." There is just not enough honesty in the world.

In the beginning of my career I did everything I could to win the hearts of my co-workers and clients. I've never been meek or subtle, but there was a time that I was more.....subdued. More political, and with a desire to please. It was maddening, disingenuous, and rather ineffective.

To thine own self be true.

So....I now speak my mind openly, freely, and without much of a filter. I am results oriented, you can like me later. Or not. I honestly no longer care.

Your position, title, or rank are meaningless. Actually, if you have truly earned your rank, title or position you are probably strong enough of character to put up with my shit. Possibly even value it. In the long run, it will serve you well.

So I will generally be loved or hated. Works for me. Both are better than the alternative....indifference.

Comments

Allison said…
I love it! I agree. I wish I could have the same outlook...in my head i do...out in the open, not so much!
Jeff Clauer said…
Hey - I've called you an ass on more than one occasion. Sometimes even to your face ;-) Do I get any points for that?

On another note, your last comment is an interesting insight into the mind of a sales rep. Isn't indifference the thing many sales reps fear most? They want to be memorable. They crave recognition (but not necessarily acceptance.) They want to please (or at least be perceived as pleasing.)

- JC

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