‘Keeping It Real’ with Marla Smith: Perception is Reality and Other Words of Wisdom
Central Region SVP Marla Smith speaks to Logistics associates about “keeping it real.”
Marla Smith’s positive influence on associates and shoppers has helped her cultivate a thriving career.
The Central Region senior vice president shared her thoughts on how others’ perceptions matter in “Keeping It Real: Taking Ownership” with Logistics associates during the directorate’s town hall meeting Sept. 13 at headquarters in Dallas.
Executive Vice President and Chief Logistics Officer Karen Stack invited Smith to address the team after hearing her speak to the Building Resources in Diversity Growth of Employees associate resource group this summer.
‘Perception is reality’
Though it might not seem fair, Smith said, what others think matters.
“Perception is reality,” Smith said. “I’m not saying it’s right. I’m saying it’s real.”
Exchange associates in the field have a special obligation to consider what Soldiers, Airmen and their families might be facing.
“We all have a story. Don’t judge—you don’t know someone else’s walk, where they are going or what they have been through,” she said.
Lifting someone’s spirits
All associates can make a difference to others. Being a positive force can lift someone’s spirits—and lead to success. Smith recommends:
- Smiling
- Saying hello
- Listening (even if you don’t want to)
- Standing straight and tall
- Refraining from bad-mouthing
“Leaders have a duty to speak,” Smith said. “You make a difference. When dealing with negative people, know that you can’t change everybody. But you can change yourself so you can tolerate it.”
To climb the ladder of success, Smith advises to remember that personal presentation matters.
“The more you get in front of people, the better you are,” she said. “It’s reality. It’s what people see. No one has time to peel back the onion and see how you really are.”
Marla Smith’s 5 perceptional principles
Smith’s “perceptional principles” include:
- Addressing issues head on
- Offering positive impressions so others remember
- Looking for common ground
- Dressing appropriately for work (no flip-flops)
- Being respectful
“Be honest with how you are perceived,” Smith said. “People need to feel comfortable leaving you in charge. Only you can control you.”
Most important, Smith said, is to remember actions directly reflect perception.
“Don’t let anyone destroy your joy,” she said. “You don’t know the impact you can have on people’s lives.”
Awesome wisdom and guidance. Good news and motivation for all. Perception is reality. You can be the best in what you do, but if you don’t display it and talk it, it will never be seen or heard.
Mr. Owes:
Thank you for writing to your Exchange Post. I will forward your comments along to Marla. I know she’ll enjoy reading them.
Steve Smith
Editor, The Exchange Post
Thank you your action always speak volume a kind a word or gesture can lift somebody spirit or change a negative to positive.
Cantina:
Thank you for writing to your Exchange Post. I will forward your comments along to Marla. I’m sure she’ll enjoy them.
Steve Smith
Editor, The Exchange Post
This is a great read and I will be sure to share with my team members. She should do a motivational tour of the exchanges.
Ms. McDuffie:
Thank you for writing to your Exchange Post. I will forward your comments along to Marla.
Steve Smith
Editor, The Exchange Post
Hello I worked for Marla Smith when she was a G.M.in Germany. Ms.Smith showed her ability to listen and trust. She gave me an opportunity to move to Garmisch , Germany to be an assistance mgr.There were others that did not believe in me. I would like to take this opportunity to compliment the exchange post for the article and of-course to Ms.Marla Smith.
This was a quote that also caught my eye:“We all have a story. Don’t judge—you don’t know someone else’s walk, where they are going or what they have been through.
Mr. Rivera:
Thank you for writing to your Exchange Post! I will pass along your comments to Marla. Thank you so much for your comments on the Exchange Post articles. As one of our devoted readers, if you have any ideas on how we can improve the content and types of articles, please let me know.
Steve Smith
Editor, The Exchange Post
If, anyone deserves to be in The Exchange Post, it’s Ms. Marla Smith. Ms. Marla’s smile lighten up the atmosphere! Thank you Ms. Smith for all you do for the Exchange.
Connie:
Thank you for writing to your Exchange Post! I will make sure I send your comments to Marla.
Anybody else out there want to comment on this article? We want to read them! Post your thoughts in the comment box.
Steve Smith
Editor, The Exchange Post