Things aren’t always what they seem

JUDGING a book by its cover is one of the most common practices in our dayto-day life.

IN business, some people say first impressions matter. How many times have you been disappointed after trusting someone or something, only to realise things were not what they were made out to be?

What glitters is not always gold.

Be careful

Appearances may be deceiving. Always take time to see what is underneath the book cover. Many fall victim after trusting people because of their appearances. A number of people in business who have been conned in one way or the other often have a common story to tell. They were deceived by individuals who looked like genuine businesspeople.

My experience

In my experience in human resources, I have come across many people who join organisations pretending to be what they are not.

Some are very good in interviews and they present impressive business solutions. Sadly, three months down the line after their engagement, management may realise they did not meet any targets due to incompetence or lack of the right attitude.

The company might dismiss the individual but this comes at a huge cost.

I have also come across others, who, after being made signatories to the company, used the opportunity for personal gain.

On investigating the individual’s history, that is when it will be established that they are not what they made themselves out to be.

It is the same in social relationships. Some people may be sweet-talked into a relationship, only to discover later that their partner is a monster.

Yet, a background search could have saved them from heartbreak.

Beware of deception

Do not trust everyone who comes to you with a smile on their face.

Jesus Christ was betrayed with a kiss, which is the symbol of affection.

However, do not prejudge people before meeting them or giving them a chance to show what they really are.

I have come across many who looked like criminals yet they were genuine people.

For example, many, if not all, mechanics look untidy, but they are actually very competent, creative and innovative.

Conversely, there are other people who live in mansions yet they are struggling.

Do your own research

I know of a family that lives in a beautiful mansion and had two big cars, but were struggling to put food on the table.

Apparently, their business collapsed during the lockdown period.

Currently, they have put their house on sale in order to buy a smaller one; pay their debts and school fees; and start a small project. So, they were living in a mansion but struggling. Things are not always what they seem.

Managers are not always as strong and good as they look.

On the other hand, some subordinates are not always as vulnerable as they seem.

It is always better to take time to understand some situations.

We are in a season where the number of people committing suicide is rising.

Be challenged to care for the next person beyond duty. Be encouraged to go a little deeper before making decisions.

Be inspired to always consider what counts the most. What counts is not the size of the dog, but the size of the fight in the dog.

◆ Rutendo Gwatidzo is a culture and change management strategist. She is an HR consultant, speaker, mentor and author of the book “Born to Fight”. Feedback: 0714575805/ winningstrategy.2020@gmail.com / Rutendo Gwatidzo official fb public page