“You can’t go into a bank with a mask on and expect to be treated as a valued customer.”

—Seth Godin, American author, marketing expert, and entrepreneur

Image from Unsplash by Amanda Jones

You can’t walk into a bank wearing a mask and expect warm smiles, fresh coffee, and a complimentary pen.

Context matters. Signals matter. And whether we like it or not, perception often outruns intention.

In life and business, we do this all the time. We show up guarded, unclear, or sending mixed signals—then feel surprised when trust is slow to arrive.

It is not personal; it is human nature doing its job.

If you want to be welcomed, make it easy for others to understand you.

Be clear, Be open. Be consistent.

Take off the metaphorical mask. You will not lose power—you will gain connection, credibility, and opportunity.

Trust grows when people can see who they’re dealing with.

EXERCISE:

Consider reading The Art of Being Yourself by Caroline McHugh. It encourages self-honesty and presence, both of which strengthen genuine connection.