Interesting Title I know, but have you ever had that happen to you, I know that I have, and when it happens it really pisses me off. It’s not the workplace superior, subordinate look that people get from time to time, but it’s the look combined with the tone of voice that someone uses when they are trying to asset their superiority.
Early last year I had a conversation with an individual who treated me like that, and it left a lasting impression. Several days ago I got a call from that same person, and it seemed that now that some things I am involved in where worth his attention.
I understand earning ones stripes, and having to prove that one is capable of following through on a project, but at the same point I remembered that first meeting very well, and quite honestly the person really insulted me at the time. It bothered me so much that I had to stop our conversation and address the issue.
It was one of those uncomfortable conversations that had to take place. I knew that if that I had not addressed it then any business relationships that developed would have had me cussing this person out, every time his name came up. What surprised me the most was the individual confirming what I said was true and that he wanted to start over and apologized. It was one of those apologies that was heartfelt, and one that will allow us to move forward.
I was stunned that discussion made all the difference in the world. How many times in business have you bit your lip. I am at a stage in my life where I don’t like to bite my lip anymore, doing so results in stress that is not needed. So just remember next time your sizing someone up be nice and don’t look down your nose at them. Because you never know when the tables are gonna change.