The Power of Reputation

The Power of Reputation: Strengthen the Asset that Will Make or Break Your Career

About the Author

Chris Komisarjevsky, a distinguished leader in public relations, retired in 2005 as the worldwide CEO of Burson-Marsteller, a top-tier global public relations and public affairs firm. With an illustrious 35-year career, Komisarjevsky has been at the forefront of shaping corporate and individual reputations. His experience and insights are encapsulated in his book, "The Power of Reputation," where he delves into the intricacies of building a reputation that can significantly influence one’s career trajectory. The author’s rich background in managing communications for high-profile organizations lends authority to his exploration of reputation management.

Main Idea

The central premise of "The Power of Reputation" is that reputation is an invaluable asset in any career. Komisarjevsky posits that a strong reputation, rooted in character, communication, and trust, is often the key determinant of success. He provides a comprehensive action plan for developing and maintaining a positive reputation, emphasizing that it is not just about public perception but also about genuine integrity and consistent behavior. The book offers practical advice and real-world examples, showing how reputation can be leveraged to achieve professional goals and overcome challenges.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Character: The Foundation of Reputation
3. Communication: The Key to Engagement
4. Trust: The Cornerstone of Success
5. Building and Leveraging Your Reputation
6. Overcoming Challenges to Reputation
7. Conclusion: An Enduring Reputation

Character: The Foundation of Reputation

Komisarjevsky begins by underscoring the critical role of character in shaping a solid reputation. He explains that character is not merely about being likable but about consistently demonstrating ethical behavior and making decisions that align with one's values. The author shares stories of prominent figures who have succeeded or fallen based on their character, illustrating the importance of maintaining integrity even when faced with difficult choices.

"Reputation is earned through the demonstration of a positive personal character." - Chris Komisarjevsky

He introduces key exercises to help readers assess and strengthen their character: