Episode 37. It’s not personal, it’s business
In today’s S*%! People Say episode, we are talking about one of the worst phrases ever: “It’s not personal, it’s just business.” I’ve been hearing this phrase for years and I think it’s total BS. If the last two years of this pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that business and personal life are not separate—in fact, they’re more intertwined than ever.
In this episode, I argue that a business should be personal in order for it to be successful. Employees deserve to be treated with respect—and like humans. In order to retain employees during the “Great Resignation” we must provide the benefits they deserve, and definitely not act under the guise of “business isn’t personal.”
If you’ve heard this phrase from someone before, know that sometimes people are just justifying their ruthless behavior. And if you’re someone who uses this phrase, maybe this episode will change your mind.
Episode highlights
01:57 I don't think that we should be forced to show up as completely different people in our personal lives and at work.
03:35 Business is personal because it is my business; I have poured so much of my time and energy into the company that I'm building.
04:30 Business is personal because it is fueled by people.
05:55 Business is personal because empathy is absolutely required to be a good leader. I don't think the idea that “it's not personal, its business” can be remotely combined with empathetic leadership.
06:53 Business is personal because people buy from people. People connect with people and people buy on emotion.