A few years back I was struggling. I had just been promoted to a management role and had several major decisions that needed to be made quickly. I was worried. These decisions would set the foundation for my success in my new role – and really “make it” or “break it” for me.
I turned to a trusted executive for advice and she shared the single best piece of advice I’ve ever received during my career:
She said, “Liz, when making tough decisions, always strive to do the right thing – for your customers, for your organization, for your team….in that order.”
Wow. So simple, but groundbreaking for me. I had never thought about it this way but she was so right – this statement was so true. In fact, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve reflected on this statement for guidance when the answer is initially unclear.
When you do the right thing, people notice. You are more credible and more trustworthy. And when you do the right thing in this order, you are more strategic and people want to follow you as a leader. Your reputation as someone who does the right thing precedes you – I know it does for the executive that so generously shared it with me.
What was the best advice you received?
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