Enron Vs. Microsoft: Does Your Reputation Cost You Sales?
“The consequence of reputation is much greater in today’s environment than it used to be.” - Alan Towers, public-relations executive
Enron
In my book, 12 Views From Women’s Eyes: Managing The New Majority, I comment that if there is fraud, it is more likely to be a woman who will blow the whistle.
Sharon Watkins of Enron is a perfect example of this, and the recent convictions of two of their most senior leaders confirm the value of her alarm.
How would you like to write proposals on behalf of Enron?
Microsoft
According to a recent survey by Edelman Public Relations, the reputation of Microsoft (AKA the evil empire) is rising worldwide.
Alan Murray in the Wall Street Journal noted that Microsoft has several things helping to boost their credibility: a new corporate mission, subdued arrogance now that they are having to slug it out on the internet where their desktop monopoly doesn’t help them, and of course the halo effect from Bill and Melinda Gates donating much of their wealth for humanitarian causes.
Reputation Arrives Before Your Proposal
It’s pretty hard to convince stakeholders to ignor or discount your reputation. After all, it arrives before your proposal!
Consider your reputation when laying out strategy for your proposals.
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