What does a promise mean to you?
For many a promise to do something has an unspoken condition attached to it, namely: If I think of it, or Maybe.
People make promises so very easily these days, but I think that's wrong. When someone asks me to promise something I always ask "What is it?" before actually promising anything.
Why? Because when I promise something to someone it means I'll do it come hell or high water. It is my word. My bond. So I don't make many promises, my typical response is "I'll try, but no guarantee", which means I'll try. I'll make a reasonable effort but there are no guarantees . . . no promise that it will be done.
Too many today say "I promise" with as much sincerity as "How are you?". You don't really care, it's just expected.
But a promise should be held in higher esteem. Keeping a promise is a direct representative of your personal character, your integrity.
We all know people who promise the sun and the moon, but never deliver. Salespeople are often accused of such antics, but you should never promise unless you expect to deliver.
Those who over promise and under, (or never), deliver end up never being believed. Their credibility is ruined. They may be a nice person, but you can't count on them.
If a client, a spouse, or a child asks you to promise, please stop and think. Can you reasonably expect to keep that promise? Maybe it would be better to say "I'll try" rather than "I promise I will".
It is better to be known for not making many promises but keeping those you do make; rather than never keeping a promise.
There are those that feel some promises are more important than others. For example a promise to make it to the son's Little League game isn't as important as a promise to call a client back with information.
I disagree, both promises are equally important, because people are counting on you to do something. It doesn't matter if it is big or small — a promise is a promise.
If you make a promise—to anyone—keep it, your integrity is at stake.
YOU ARE READING
Marketing and Business 101
Non-FictionI have been involved in some form of marketing in one form or another almost my entire life. My experience covers sales, sales training, being the Director of Marketing for two medium sized local businesses, as well as consulting with businesses th...
