The Takeaway for Every Small Biz Owner from the Donald Sterling Fiasco
Most of us don’t have the mass media exposure (or capital at stake) like L.A. Clippers owner Donald Sterling, but his recent private racist rant that turned public holds a lesson for all of us as business owners.
No matter what we say or do and no matter to whom we say or do it, it can affect us professionally.
Like it or not, we too, are public figures to some degree. We’re the face of our businesses and our words and actions – even those used in our personal lives – can either draw people to or push them away from our brands.
While the mass media won’t be focused on what we do, social media can just as effectively spread the word about anything we’ve done to offend, degrade, or otherwise infuriate people.
Some might argue we should be able to speak our minds and do what we want – free country, right?
True…However, if you want your business to thrive, the reality is you need to be careful and cognizant of the risks.
In this world where anything we say and do can be held against our businesses instantly, we need to:
- Control our tempers.
- Think before we speak or write.
- Be in tune with the feelings of others.
- Act respectfully even when we don’t agree with others.
For some that comes naturally. For others, it’s a struggle.
The lines between what’s personal and professional are increasingly blurred. We can do what we want and say what we want, but we need to realize what we say and do personally could affect our businesses.
Your turn – What are your thoughts about the blurred lines between what’s “personal” and what’s “business”?
By Dawn Mentzer
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