Let me first apologize to more than a few people as I write this entry who are working to evolve American English. In the U.S., our brand of communication changes constantly and I'm told by friends from other countries that American English is one of the most difficult languages to learn. Having to spend so much energy keeping up with the lingo of my two teenage children, I believe it.
If you have spent any time talking to me, you may have noticed I never say "awesome." Never. It's not part of my vocabulary. Now, I work with great people. I admire them, I follow them and I learn from them. But I don't use their same vernacular. I think it's important to think about how you describe others and to manage how people describe you.
As someone who recommends others it is vital to avoid overselling them or their work. Recognize there will be some who disagree with your assessment, so if a candidate is really worth supporting, do so but be ready to back it up with evidence.
This may be too deep, but what and who is really "awesome?" How did you decide? Was it a favor that really anyone could have done? Or, did someone improve your thinking about life and work? If you respect, follow, converse, match, learn from or express to someone who you truly believe can significantly help you over a period of time, then yes, they are truly awesome.
Perhaps the next time you ask "So, how did it go?" or "What did you think?" try responding with, "Dude, it was totally durable," or "It was built to last."
doug@knowledgewebb.net
*Chantal de la Rionda edits this blog
