If your mother was listening, would you be ashamed of what you said?

by Philip F. Jacobus, CEO | January 29, 2014

I was speaking on the phone the other day with an important figure in our industry who shall remain anonymous. This person said that when he speaks, he does so as if he is going to be quoted.

It occurred to me how few people think this way. When speaking on the phone, or for that matter, sending e-mails, so many people say things that their mothers would not approve of. Forget about the pictures I see that are sent around.

It is standard practice today for people to look you up online, especially if they are considering doing business with you. And it is easy to find unprofessional things you might have said in the past. Remember that nothing goes away online.

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If you're speaking to a client, you can also make the wrong impression if you are not careful.

I recommend you choose your words more carefully and imagine that you are speaking to your mother. If you follow this rule with business and clients, you will not be embarrassed today or tomorrow.

I thank God that no one has ever recorded the adolescent conversations between myself and Don Bogutski. But with Mr. Bogutski as an exception, I try my best to keep in mind that anything I say in writing is going to be out there forever, and anything I say on the phone or in person had better not make the wrong impression.

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About Phil Jacobus

Phil Jacobus has been involved in health care since 1977, when he visited China to sell equipment. He has done business in 35 countries and still travels extensively. Phil is active in charity, helps rural clinics and always tries to help DOTmed users when he can.

Phil is a member of AHRA, HFMA, AAMI and the Cryogenic Society of America. He has contributed to a number of magazines and journals and has addressed trade groups.

Phil's proudest achievement is that he has been happily married to his wife Barbara since 1989, who helped him found DOTmed in 1998.


(6) (33) Jim Monro Virtually Impossible January 30, 2014 02:28 In the educational business it is expected that you will speak distinctly and with correct grammar. Had a conference call with PSU this week and was amazed how they were able to communicate forcefully with no threats, no foul language and no grammatical idioms or mistakes; however, in the Used Equipment biz, it's a whole other story. Sometimes you have to be a cameleon of sorts. Log inor Register to rate and post a comment (132) (6) (42) Don Bogutski In reference to speak as if your mother was listening. January 31, 2014 06:34 Phil: This may be the most important personal advice you have offered. Perhaps, this is the best column you have yet written. And for those who are interested,the tapes of my private conversations with Phil will soon be available online. Log inor Register to rate and post a comment (8) David G. Imber Words to live by February 04, 2014 06:17 Great editorial and a great lesson! Not just what we say, but we're also what we do. Mom's listening, and she's also watching. Good idea to always take one breath and think about that.(Mom also told us to always remember to say...) Thanks! Log inor Register to rate and post a comment
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