At first his comment disturbed me, mainly because I’m a huge T.O. fan. After I calmed down from my initial reaction, I realized that his comment illustrates the importance of establishing your brand and building credibility. It also shows the effect that your reputation has on people’s perception of you.
Owens has the reputation of being selfish, egotistic and drama-filled. Owens' talent on the field is often overshadowed by his public persona and by his actions on and off that field that harm his reputation and at times hurt his team. Skip Bayless, ESPN analyst, gave him the nickname “Team Obliterator” because of how his actions often hurts his team’s chemistry.
In James Hoggan’s book “Do the Right Thing” Hoggan discusses how important it is to do the right thing in order to gain credibility and establish a good reputation. “Sometimes, you will need help - testimonials from credible people who are willing to speak up on your behalf. But remember this too: In order to win that validation - in order to attract reputable leaders who are willing to confirm your credibility - you need to be doing the right thing.(p.20)”
Hoggans "golden rule" theory can be applied to the Owens situation. Owens' selfish actions and lack of consideration for how those actions might affect his teammates caused him to lose credibility and not to attract reputable leaders in the NFL as well as the media to speak on his behalf. Because of his actions, his statement, “I am basically playing [football] for free,” is thought to be only another ego-inspired comment instead of one that shows his love for the game.
Brandon,
ReplyDeleteMaintaing a good, creditable image is extremly important for public relations professional and also public figures. It is fine to have an opinion but when displaying it to millions of people, I think that it is a good idea to think before you speak.
Brandon,
ReplyDeleteI too agree with you, we all must think before we speak no matter what field of work we choose. Making good choices for the right reason goes a long way. Throughout T.O. career, many of the things he said have been questionable and have caused controversy. I believe that if he to take James Hoggan’s advice in Do the Right Thing and think before he speak and make sure what he is saying is for a good reason things will be less controversy for him and his image.
Cierra Jackson
I agree with you Brandon. If Terrell Owens keep going down this road then of course he will get NO WHERE! The only way, at this point, he can go is up because as of now his reputation and credibility is at the bottom.
ReplyDeleteByron Johnson
I concur. Some athletes and people in general don't think before they speak. Being an athlete, such as Terrell Owens, one should always take into consideration what they speak on and how it may come across to others. It's a known fact that anyone of higher statue are being watched by younger viewers who may consider these athletes to be romodels. Everything word, attire and overall attitude counts. Until Owens and all others with his mindset realizes that, there's really no hope.
ReplyDeleteChristopher Jackson