I’m struggling with what to do with pieces of furniture that I no longer need or have room for. You might say, “That’s easy, give them away.” In reality it’s not that easy. Many of the pieces have sentimental value. It seems wrong to get rid of them.
Am I being honest with myself? Is it really that hard to find a new home for these items, or do I honestly have a strong need to hang on to them?
Thinking of honesty, my mind shifted to the small business owner. Honesty is an important value and a true reflection of strong leadership.
Brands build trust by acting with honesty and integrity. A brand consumers trust builds brand loyalty.
Honesty can show up in a number of ways.
Sell what you promote. There’s nothing more dishonest than the old bait and switch. You show up to buy an advertised product only to find they’re ’sold out’ and you’re presented with a more expensive item. Or worse, the item comes with other requirements like a two-year subscription.
If you’re advertising a product or service, make it something you sell. The fastest way to upset or lose a customer is by being dishonest about your products.
Know your stuff. Customers place their trust in your skill and ability to deliver the services they signed up for you. A carpenter completed a small renovation in my home recently. I put my trust in the carpenter’s ability to meet my expectations and that meant the work would be done professionally.
Keep your promises. Business owners who make promises and keep them are more likely to get repeat business. This means showing up for a scheduled appointment, delivering a product on time, or meeting an important deadline.
Be accountable. Mistakes happen. When they do, a business owner with integrity will own up to the mistake and work with the customer to make it right. This portrays honesty.
Be clear and open. Being transparent with information demonstrates honesty and builds trust. Simply put, this means giving customers the information they need to make an informed decision. Transparency is good in business, but equally important in the workplace. Employees who trust their leaders stay longer and are more engaged.
Honesty is an important brand value. How are you building trust and brand loyalty through honesty?
My furniture dilemma? I was honest with myself and admitted that I could part with my extra furniture. I’ve decided to give a couple pieces away and I’ll repurpose another. It’s a start.
Writing for you. 