Walk your talk

Is it just ME, or are you, too, tired of people who say one thing, then turn around and do another?

 

If there is one thing I value to the same heights and depths as my family, it’s my word.  It’s good.  Take it to the bank.  No need to confirm.  People who know me well, know this.

From time to time, and I suppose it is unavoidable, we are forced to engage with people who say one thing, may mean another, and turn around and do something yet again different.  Very frustrating.

On a recent Sunday morning news show, I was thrilled to catch the lead-in to an upcoming story:  “Warren Buffet says women are our future”.  Bravo, Mr. Buffet!

The story went on to state he believes more women should serve on corporate boards, as  heads of Fortune 500 companies, in higher decision-making capacities – and he’s right.

So, where is the rub?

Well, his own company is reported to rank at the bottom of the Fortune 500 for actually doing these things.  Really, Mr. Buffet?

His world renowned Berkshire Hathaway is an American multinational conglomerate overseeing and managing an A-list of subsidiaries including wholly owned GEICO, Lubrizol, Dairy Queen, Fruuit of the Loom (love the talking fruit head son the commercials!) Helzberg Diamonds, and Net Jets.  In addition, they own half of Heinz and Mars along with minority holdings in American Express, The Coca Cola Company, Wells Fargo and IBM.  WOW!!

While his word is truly financial gold and his accomplishments clearly speak for themselves, I was disappointed to learn the facts after his declaration. 

Let’s give Mr. Buffet a break, shall we, and hope that this announcement is a prelude to others that will declare more women as Board Members, CEO’s, and other high-ranking positions across the board in his many companies.  I don’t know what jobs may be open at this point…perhaps whoever does his pre-interview research has created an opportunity, so keep your eyes and ears open.

So IS it just me, or do you, too, appreciate those who speak with actions, not just words?

Build your reputation the old-fashioned way;

earn it!