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Transparency

In 2010, I encourage transparency.  It's tough to pull off.  As they say, I think it's appropriate to "say what you mean, without being mean."

I'm really enjoying Pamela Slim's book.  The wisdom around networking is thoughtful.  We are social creatures and we are more successful if we try to get things done together.  I think that's one generation point for organizations.  Someone had a great idea and got a few people together to build on that. And eventually, you end up with 5,000+ people working with you to engage a set of goals or results.

As individuals, we can lose what makes us authentic, open and transparent, if we get lost in the organization's goals or vision.  Toggling between the organization's goals/values and our own can be hard work.  Ideally, you want to work where there's some synergy.  However, just remember there are still two distinct entities involved: you...the company.  Try to keep those clear.

And remember, that your personal brand: who you are in the world, is of ultimate importance to discover and reflect in your thought, word and action.  It is the foundation from which you network.

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