Peter Mock Thinking about: Professional Integrity
Integrity is the consistent attitude of high standards, honesty and truthfulness that motivate and inspire professional actions for a successful outcome.
But what does that mean for you and your client?
Let's start with the client first. The client and any associate that works with a professional require a basis of trust in order to plan and to delegate in the work process. The faster this part of the relationship is built the better it is and the more successful you will be. Remember, as a Professional you want to build a long-term relationship for the future that secures your position in the marketplace. For that reason it is essential to not only built a consistent reputation for what you do (quality) but also for how you do it (attitude). Transparency, clarity and honesty are essential. Let the client see what your work values are to make it easy to align his/hers in the process.
The most obvious values are – with the danger of sounding old fashioned – honesty, reliability and loyalty. The client wants to know that the professioinal services they invite to collaborate with them, is motivated to work for and with them, and is committed to making the project a success for their company – they are paying for Professional services. Any alternate motive is not appropriate.
In recent years I developed the mental attitude to think of my clients as friends and got used to thinking to myself "Your success is my success". I hate to let my friends down and like to help them.
Don't get me wrong: I am not promoting total obedience and sacrifice. But, if you think about it, the value of success works both ways: the client's success in working with you will ultimately be your success.
It's a win-win situation!
I find this self-motivation very useful because it inspires teamwork and a deep bonding with the client, which they will usually respond to favorably. With energy and trust in the relationship and a genuine commitment to the project, it makes it easier to go the extra mile.
Integrity is a recipe for long-term success that enables you to value your client and value yourself. It makes you feel good about yourself and it makes work more rewarding.
Peter Mock is a Design Consultant and Motion Graphic Designer. He is also a Master Practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming, which aims to increase behavioral and emotional flexibility and integration by instruction in using language, imagination, and the body. He previously wrote Coaching for Creatives for the Blueberry Newsletter.
