Authenticity in working with others or in business networking is critical to building meaningful relationships that will help you achieve success with your goals and dreams. People are very suspicious of hype nowadays especially if they have been burned by over promising and under delivering marketers. If you were a victim of unscrupulous mortgage brokers, real estate agents, or financial planners, you are probably wearing garlic around your neck to ward off anyone who could possibly lead you down the wrong path. An authentic person is someone who is truly compassionate and has your best interests at heart. There is a big difference between being an authentic person and being a brown noser.
The definition of a brown noser is:
A person who acts favorably to his or her peers to gain status or fancy that will eventually be used to their advantage, such as a raise, promotion, or acceptance in a group
or . . .
a servile self-seeker who hopes to gain favor and approval by praising and fawning over influential people
A brown noser is typically someone who gives the appearance of authenticity, but lacks true sincerity. They have an agenda, and although they appear to be on your side, you can be sure they will step on your toes if they cannot get what they want. A brown noser often attempts to be teacher’s pet to a higher or influential authority.
In most cases, a brown noser is easy to spot. Most will eventually be discovered and fall to the wayside in disgrace. Below are some characteristics of a brown noser to look out for:
- They are micro-managers who will not release control or allow you to get information that will help you move forward in what you want to accomplish. One of the only times I ever worked in an office, (for about 3 weeks) I was put under the charge of an ambitious young lady who felt threatened by someone else taking her job. I was given the most boring and tedious filing chores to do. If I asked a question that would help me understand my job or the company better, the answer was purposely withheld. Needless to say, that became old fast and I moved on to much more appealing pastures.
- They are first to criticize or send you in a direction that will get you into trouble. This makes them appear to be wiser and look better in the eyes of an authority or person of influence
- They are territorial. They will limit your access to people or resources that would help you grow.
- They will flatter you with the intention of getting something they want in return.
An authentic person, on the other hand, possesses the following qualities:
- They are truly interested in helping you succeed in any way they can.
- They ask questions to find out what your needs are and offer you a valid solution to your problem.
- They include you rather than exclude you from accessing important information or connections that will move you forward.
- They are fair in their dealings and operate with the highest integrity.
- They are more interested in promoting you than promoting themselves.
- They offer helpful suggestions rather than criticisms.
- They listen.
What have been your experiences with brown nosers either in business or in your personal life? Feel free to comment and please tweet or share this post.
About Rebecca Olkowski
I'm a 30 + year voice over actor, blogger, WordPress Blog Consultant and a gal who loves to have fun. I'm on a mission to travel the world in style. Can you give me a lift?
