The words “It’s not personal, it’s just business” are all too common. I’ve had them used to me, my staff and friends. And I’ve often read them in the media.
The reality is, of course, that all business is personal.
Every interaction we have with another human being is personal, founded on human to human relationships. When we start to think that “it’s just business” takes priority over personal, as a human and leader we have failed.
Of course we can and must make business decisions. But as soon as we talk to the people who are impacted by the decision, we need to remember, it becomes very personal to them.
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If you find yourself about to utter the words “It’s not personal. It’s just business”, then please pause for a moment…
Look the other person in the eye, and realize it’s probably personal for them!
Then … adjust accordingly.
I didn’t want to run. Not a single bone in my body felt like venturing out into the dark cold winters morning to exercise.