The best books aren’t always the newest ones. Or the ones with the fanciest cover. Some of the best books are the ones that are older, worn, where the pages have been turned a hundred times, and where the cover, well it could be better.
Each of us has a story. A story of now, the past and potential futures that impact to what extent we are able to present ourselves at our best.
Here are 3 examples from last autumn where I definitely didn’t present myself at my best, and also why:
⏳ Example 1: Time limitations
Last fall I was made redundant and I had to put together a CV and portfolio with quite some urgency. I’d not needed one since 2007 so I started from scratch. The actual time I could dedicate to it was very limited and kicking off my job search was pressing. I know my CV and particularly my portfolio could be a lot better but 75% had to do. Something similar might apply to someone applying with your company. Don’t dismiss someone with great experience/ something to offer too quickly.
🎥 Example 2: Uncomfortable circumstances
Despite years of fully remote and part remote work I still dislike video calls. Sometimes a lot and when that happens it makes me very self-conscious. This impacts how confident I appear, the energy I bring, and how happy I feel. I had a fair few moments where the camera made me get off to the wrong start, or I lost my focus. It still happens. In fact it happened yesterday too during my bookclub.
If someone appears uncomfortable, there’s probably a good reason for it.
📈 Example 3: Life situations
Last November I had to sit through job interviews and provide training with a smile on my face but I was breaking inside. I could hardly hold myself together. I was going through two big losses at the same time but as I’d recently been made redundant I had to plough on. I definitely wasn’t at my best though. If someone seems good but something seems off, ask in a reassuring way.
Right now people are suffering and affected mentally by what’s happening in the world. Be kind. Give people the benefit of the doubt, and don’t judge them too much by their cover. There might be a hidden gem inside.
