Why having a degree won’t make you polite.
By Assertive Way
I used to think that most people with degrees were polite. I used to think that the more degrees someone had the more polite they would be.
By polite I mean having or showing behavior that is respectful and considerate of other people. It is a basic social skill of convivial and cordial interactions that promote social wellbeing.
What I found shocking was that as I moved up the education ladder and up the corporate ladder, I noticed rude behaviors everywhere.
What I found shocking was that as I moved up the education ladder and up the corporate ladder, I noticed rude behaviors everywhere by people with high education levels, big titles, and high paying jobs. Rude, aggressive, poorly mannered but highly educated people.
Constantly interrupting others, blaming their own employees, stealing credit, bluntly ignoring people who don’t agree with them, intentionally manipulating others to achieve their goals are some examples of constantly occurring impolite behaviors in companies.
It was a huge revelation for me.
Universities, graduate programs, MBAs, and companies generally do not teach politeness, empathy, and respect towards others.
It’s important to differentiate politeness from effectiveness.
Being polite does not deny being objective, clear, and effective. Being polite does not deny sharing hard unpopular news or standing up for oneself. All it means is that we are respectful of others.
Being polite does not deny being objective, clear, and effective.
Be careful to not emulate impolite behaviors of highly degree educated and senior people in your organization.
Let’s strive to contribute to a world with more respect, kindness, and compassion, while remaining firm, bold, and effective.
SUMMARY
Don’t be fooled to think that getting education from a top university or graduate program and getting a high paying job with a senior title will teach people to be polite, respectful, and considerate towards others. It doesn’t work that way. Make sure that as you gain more education and climb the corporate ladder, as and you gain more influence and power, that you stay respectful and considerate to all people. Be a force of good while still having powerful and strong leadership.
“No matter how educated, talented, rich or cool you believe you are, how you treat people ultimately tells all. Integrity is everything.” – Unknown