Whether you are an employee, business owner or consultant your reputation matters.  Despite its importance, it isn’t entirely under our control.

The scapegoat

Maybe you are an employee in search of a new challenge. You move on your new job and in doing so you become the scapegoat for problems at the old one. It can be one of the most frustrating, helpless situations.

Or perhaps you are an external consultant. After accepting what seemed like an interesting contract, you discover that you’ve been hired to “prove” an unpopular course of action is appropriate; deflecting criticism from the management team. The added bonus being that if the recommended option doesn’t work out – it’s your fault. 

For service providers whose product is largely intangible, reputation is one of their most important assets.  However, the quality and achievement of their projects’ goals are subject to opinion.  With the qualitative nature of their vocation – reputation can be at risk.

Managing your reputation

While we can’t control what is said about us, we can take measures to improve it.

  1. Before starting a contract, take the time to meet with the client and determine their goals. Develop meaningful, quantifiable indicators and milestones that will clearly demonstrate the client’s objective has been achieved.
  2. Strive to deserve a positive reputation.  Always do your best to provide a quality product that meets the client’s needs.
  3. Put yourself in their shoes.  How do you feel when a co-worker leaves or a consultant moves on?    All sorts of emotions from loss to thankfulness can be in the mix.  Keep in mind that these emotions are in play, and be ready to respond to them with sensitivity. Assure them that you are moving on to new challenges, not running from a bad situation. Point out the positive aspects of the job or contract that you’ve enjoyed, things you’ve learned, and positive memories that you will carry with you.
  4. Before leaving, ensure the transition is seamless.  Document your work, put your files in order, and offer to train your replacement.
  5. Request a wrap up meeting where you request feedback from the client and confirm that the contract goals have been met.

Confirm in your client’s, coworkers’ or boss’ mind that you achieved their goal and you did a good job.  And keep in touch.  After all, these are folks you shared time with and perhaps a few laughs along the way.  Besides maintaining some valued relationships, it might even mean repeat business down the line.