Some 'buzzwords' and 'trends' dominate the conversation at times.
Lately, I noticed AUTHENTICITY as a recurring theme.
Walt Crawford in Authenticity and Sincerity (E Content, October 09) covers the topic broadly.
He quotes Seth Godin writing in Authenticity (February 09) "Authenticity, for me, is doing what you promise, not "being who you are".
Not sure that Seth got it right in this instance.
Take the example of a business that would state in their 'mission statement', 'tagline', call it whatever you like that 'generosity' is part of their values and at the same time reward some employees with $3 an hour vacation pay.
Would they be consistent?
Is it aligned with their 'brand'?
Jim Gilmore and Joe Pine penned a whole book on the subject (cover below)
In the food business in the US, I met many chefs calling dishes things they were not, at least not the way I knew them.
It could be their version of 'Coquilles St Jacques' which Kerry Saretsky turns into A Pot Pie (a scallop too far) for Serious Eats.
They could just be faking it.
The whole thing about authenticity and sincerity in the US might be informed by the fact that the country is relatively young.
People might be eager to add a little patina to their story, their business.
Is planting a section of an old tree in your suburban store doing the trick?
Faking sincerity and authenticity might also be driven by the misconception in some quarters that they have to please each and every customer or at least appeal to them.
If I go to a wine store and ask someone's opinion about a new selection, I expect their honest opinion.
I will respect them more and tend to be a repeat customer.
Does making a quick sale trample authenticity, sincerity and honesty?
Is it OK as long as you romance the customer?
Real Fakes and Originals for Monday Work Etiquette # 111
Related: Telling the Truth versus Fudging It
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