Chances are you’ve heard of The Golden Rule, which prescribes: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” It turns out, there’s a better rule to live and work by: The Platinum Rule.
Unlike The Golden Rule, The Platinum Rule by Dr. Tony Alessandra says to “treat others the way they want to be treated” – not the way you want to be treated.
The Platinum Rule approach can help improve relationships and results with these 3 key audiences.
Your constituents, customers and clients. Building positive relationships are critical to any industry, including government. By paying close attention to the needs and goals of customers, constituents and clients, you’re better positioned to deliver meaningful as well as measurable results.
Your boss. Not only is the Platinum Rule a top-down approach, but it’s also works from the bottom up. Knowing what gets your managers and key decision-makers up in the morning and keeps them up at night can help you make important allies in the office.
Yourself. Don’t forget to put the Platinum Rule to work for you as well. Knowing what you want and how you want to be treated helps others to understand and ultimately reciprocate.
The inherent problem with The Golden Rule is that you make assumptions about the expectations of others. Upgrading to the Platinum Rule is a better way to build relationships and provide exceptional service, as well as understand others and even yourself.
Effective listening depends on respect for the needs, ideas and feelings of everyone, including you. By truly listening and using The Platinum Rule, you will have a better understanding of the problems at hand and what’s really important.
Throughout my career in public affairs and public relations, I’ve seen firsthand the difference The Platinum Rule can make. How can you apply the Platinum Rule in your current job, career search or personal life?
Mike Kennerknecht is the Public Relations Supervisor at Tipping Point Communications in Rochester, NY and the former Chief of Staff to New York State Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo.
