During one of my client meetings this week, we began to discuss a person who was the Executive Director for the client organization. He retired a couple of years ago, but his presence is still felt. One of the people in our meeting described the retired executive (I’ll call him Glen) as “a perfect gentleman”, a description that was very accurate. On my drive back to our offices, I began to ponder which characteristics about this man seem to reinforce his gentlemanly nature and how these characteristics might apply to serving our clients. Here are a few that stand out.
Presence
Glen always seemed to be totally engaged on the task at hand. If it was a committee meeting, he facilitated the meeting in a manner that ensured that everyone’s input was welcomed. If it was a one-on-one conversation, he listened intently and provided engaged feedback. There was never a sense that Glen was distracted or wanted to be elsewhere. He was always comfortably involved in the present.
Courtesy
Over the course of 5 years, I never observed Glen act in an inappropriate manner. His tone was always respectful and upbeat. The guy always focused on the other person first.
Integrity
One of the most honest people you’ll ever meet, Glen wouldn’t even exceed the speed limit despite his 140-mile round trip each day.
Humility
Despite his position and the many accomplishments that he achieved over a 40-year career, Glen was the most approachable, down-to-earth person you’ll ever meet. At his own retirement party, he was embarrassed by the attention. Knowing this in advance, his staff collaborated with Glen’s wife to throw a surprise party, since it was common knowledge that if Glen knew the date and time of the party in advance he would probably find an excuse to miss it.
Faithful
Glen is dedicated to the people and organizations in his life. If Glen is on your team, he is unquestionably fully on your team.
The last I heard, Glen was acting as a part-time director for a non-profit agency during his “retirement”. The mission of the organization might be different, but I can imagine that Glen’s commitment is as heartfelt as in any other endeavor that he undertakes. For a perfect gentleman, it could be no other way.
