Brand Building, Brand Management & Judgment

It’s common for people to quickly judge others. Perhaps you had a bad experience with someone, and that left less than a favorable impression. Maybe you have heard negative things about someone for months. Based on rumors or isolated experiences, we classify someone in a particular way and cling to that judgment. That person’s words and behaviors are forever seen through a cloudy lens. We’ve all been on both sides of that situation. Today, consider how branding others can limit you and your career.

Form Your Own Impression

In one of my first jobs, while I was still a student, I got warnings from all of my co-workers about our “horrible boss.” She was labeled a tyrant with impossible expectations. As I got to know my boss, I realized that as long as you arrived on time, showed her respect, and did your work, she was a great boss. I earned excellent performance reviews and learned a lot. Despite what I heard, I formed my own opinion. I learned a lot from that first job and that “horrible boss” turned out to be someone whose opinion I respected and trusted. When I moved on from that role I stayed in touch with her – and I do to this day.

Walk a Mile in Her Jimmy Choos

First impressions can be relationship blockers. When you observe someone exhibiting poor behavior, don't rush to judgment. Everyone experiences a rough day – or sometimes rough patch. Rather than spreading nasty rumors or being a gossipmonger, give someone the benefit of the doubt. Think before you label a person. By giving another look at someone, you might find a valuable resource or an insightful colleague.

Know When to Walk Around

There are times when your first impression is accurate. You might conclude that someone is trouble. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking: “He means well, or that is how he is.” Not only can this person frustrate you, but he can hinder your success. In that case, try to steer clear of someone that you know is a troublemaker or spreads negativity. Avoid the temptation of stirring the pot and hastening that person’s demise. You should always behave in a manner that reflects favorably on your own brand. You can’t control what others do, but you can control how you behave and the reputation you develop. Keep things professional and positive. You will be respected, and your brand will thank you.

The Bottom Line

Building and managing an admirable brand takes work. It is interesting to look at things from a different angle.

How you brand someone else leads to the formation of your own opinion and how you interact with that person. Be open minded and to coin a phrase – “don’t judge a book by its cover.” You might find the content far more engaging and beneficial than you initially thought.