I discuss this question within the context of paid employment. But if truth be told, it’s actually relevant to virtually all areas of human interaction.

Can You Answer “YES”?

Your ability to honestly answer YES to the above question would be a reflection of the quality of your character.

In paid employment, many situations will regularly test your ability to walk your talk in this regard.

Those you work or relate with will quietly form their opinions based on what they see you do.

Here are two examples:

1. Recruitment Interviews

If/when you’re assigned to conduct interviews for prospective employees, how objective would you be?

Would you stick to the specified rules, even if your friend or relative’s child would get dropped as a result, for instance?

2. Performance Reviews

What if you had to perform a year end appraisal for a highly competent subordinate, who often tests your patience by asking questions when everyone else is already following your “orders”?

Would you let your feelings make you mark him down?

Or would you score him based on an objective assessment of the different dimensions of his performance?

What You Do, And Not What You Say, Is What Really Matters

Remember that those on the receiving end of your decisions and actions will draw their conclusions based on the experiences they have in relating with you.

If you are unfair, they’ll assume you’re doing what your employer wants.

As a result you’d be guilty of giving the company a bad image before outsiders.

Candidates who see you give unfair advantage to less competent others, will not forget it in a hurry.

And they’ll likely tell others too. You don’t want that. And your employer certainly does not need that!

Your subordinates will also expect you to treat them with respect and consideration. To do otherwise would be to lose their trust.

That could make them less enthusiastic about giving you their commitment on the job.

Earn People’s Trust If You Want Their Commitment

You need to earn people’s trust if you want to lead and/or relate with them successfully.

One proven way to do that is to be above board in all your dealings.

Once people become convinced that you are, they’ll readily accept anything you tell them.

That kind of goodwill cannot be bought with money. It only comes through being fair and impartial in relating with others.

The world would be a much better place if more people would commit to doing the above, both in and out of paid employment.