It’s not Personal. Its Business!

January 31, 2009

Michael Corleone: [to Sonny] It’s not personal, Sonny. It’s strictly business. — The Godfather (1972)

In an office environment, there are often times when :

1. It is difficult to negotiate with a client/colleague
2. Someone gets fired
3. Emotions (sometimes excitement, anger etc.) are spilled out

There is nothing personal when it comes to business. In an environment where accountability and ownership fail, people sometimes run into a brick wall. The only recourse is to find another way around it and gain insight on how impersonal business can be.

In many instances, when a mistake is pointed out :

1. The person gets all worked up;
2. The person gets defensive;
3. There is a cold-war situation in the environment;
4. Things are not taken in a positive fashion;
5. Negative work environment only creates a destructive pattern to erode the success. “Do I loose a friend when he/she points out my mistakes? How can I trust the person? Do I give up a friend because of a conflict of interest at work?” — We are all victims of such thinking.

An escalated matter (to the management) is sometimes required to get things done. Yet if this option is chosen all the time you will not be ale to earn the respect and get things done in the future.

To avoid such thoughts here are some tips:

1. Personal life situations should not affect your business decisions.
2. Remember that business is an impersonal entity.
3. Accept your mistakes and be honest.
4. Look at the big picture and think about the company first.
5. Find a recourse of action to avoid business matters affecting your personal life.

Remember: It’s not personal. It’s Business!