The identity of the messenger is more important than the message itself. In other words, it’s crucial to consider whether the messenger’s identity is reliable. It matters more to others that they know who I am and recognize me than how well I have built relationships and interacted with them. Identity begins with my proclamation, and credibility only emerges when others acknowledge that proclamation. If there is a significant gap between my declaration and how others perceive me, I will need to invest considerable time and money to bridge that gap. Similarly, if there is a significant discrepancy between the message I intend to convey and my declared identity, it also requires a substantial amount of time and money. Consumers are acutely aware of these differences, yet they often remain silent about them. Asking others to share their inner self-assessment is as burdensome as expecting them to reveal their true selves. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”
Humans establish a tacit relationship distance with others without even knowing it. Each person’s relationship distance is different, and it is not permitted to change the distance unless there is a specific reason or motive. Relationship distance is fateful. Sometimes, an event creates an opportunity for others to confirm the unilateral setting of the relationship distance. If the other person agrees to a one-sided distance setting, the relationship continues. All of this is often more informal and tacit. It is nearly impossible for others to change this distance. Therefore, we create a new relationship. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”