To Jack, the new guy looked like an unmade bed. Slacks with no crease. Shoes scuffed. Hair messy. The guy’s shirt style was perfect—for ten years ago. Yet, other than his rumpled appearance, the new guy looked to be on the fast track: the bosses gave him one plum assignment after another.
This confused Jack, and he challenged his manager on it. “It’s simple,” the boss said. “This guy’s work is outstanding. Best on the team. You can help someone look good. It’s hard to find someone who is good.”
This is Howard Butt Jr. of Laity Lodge. It’s true that looks matter, but our ultimate goal is performance. Appearances can deceive, but excellence never will … in the high calling of our daily work.
