The first time I heard the expression “Your word is your bond” I was a freshman in college. I joined ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) in college so I could ride in a helicopter and earn an easy “A.”
During our first cadet meeting, our Commanding Officer told us, “as an officer your word is your bond.” I remember thinking what a unique way of saying “do what you said you would do.”
Our Commander explained how keeping our word builds trust. He also told us it would help us earn the respect of our peers, boss, and the people we would lead. We were told, “never compromise our integrity.”
Over the years, I have used the expression with military personnel and civilians. In fact, I still use the phrase today. When I assume a new leadership position, I always share my expectations by sharing my personal motto’s.
The first motto I share is “lead by example.” As a leader, you set the tone for your organization. Therefore, it is important to model what you expect from others. According to John Maxwell’s Law of the Picture, “people do what people see.”
My second motto is “my word is my bond.” If I commit to doing something, I will do everything I can to honor my commitment. I remind my staff to under-promise and over-deliver.
As a leader, it’s vital to build trust. When you over-promise and don’t deliver, you lose credibility and break trust. The lack of trust erodes the foundation of relationships.
“A commitment goes beyond just words of intent, but the actions that lead to positive outcomes.”
Rob Peters
How can you ensure you are not over committing? Fred Kofman, VicePresident at LinkedIn, offers the following three questions you should ask yourself before making a commitment:
- Do you understand the request?
- Do you have a plan to meet the commitment?
- Do you have the skills and resources required?
If you cannot fulfill your commitment, you should inform the person as soon as possible. Why? Because your word is your bond. Maintaining your integrity will give you a competitive advantage.
Kofman puts it exquisitely when he states, “Your promises are not just conditions of satisfaction you fulfill in the future; they are guarantees of integrity you honor in the present.”
Are you keeping your commitments?
Your leadership guide,
Kim
Dr. Kim Moore | Your Leadership Guide | kimdmoore.com
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