Know-How Exchange : Advertising/PR

I'll answer a philosophical question with a philosophical question. Do you believe in honesty?

I'm not sure I understand the motivation of your question, but maybe you are wondering how best to deal with personal questions which "get in the way of closing business". Maybe you are asking "this learned forum" how to best position you in the business world on this issue.

In my opinion, there is a simple alternative to spin: truth. Too many folks in marketing have traded their moral compass for an ROI calculator. You ask me to tell you what you believe - how can I possibly know that? Someone has asked you a simple and straightforward personal question, and you want us to "spin" some pat answer for you.

If I were asked that question, the way I would respond would depend on the situation. If I were sitting in a room with a dozen people, and the person addressed the question to me in front of everyone, I would assume the question to be a test of my diplomatic skills. If I were one on one with the person, I would assume either 1) that this was an open and honest question, or 2) the person was about to launch into a one on one evangelistic campaign.

The important issue is, why did the person ask the question? Did they ask the question because they plan to evangelize you? because they are wrestling with this question themselves? In an attempt to create a deeper, more intimate personal relationship with you? because they have doubts about your business ethics?

Zeme gave an honest answer - and you should as well. Your best honest answer will depend on the social situation and on the state of mind of the person asking the question.

If you were to ask me this question on an open forum such as MarketingProfs, I would give a very similar answer to Zeme's answer. If you were to ask me sincerely and in private, we could have a much more open and honest conversation. Take care.