Government Jobs Interview Questions
Sometimes we learn from our parents not by what they say but rather by watching what they do.
More often, however, we learn most by studying history. For example;
During China’s War of the Three Kingdoms (A.D. 207-265) the great General Chuko Liang, sent his vast army to a distant camp while he rested in a small town with only a hundred soldiers or so to guard him. Soon word came that his enemy Sima Yi, along with over 150,000 troops were approaching the city. With only a handful of men of his own, General Liang’s fate seemed imminent.
The two Generals had battled many times before and knew each other well. Both were great warriors but Liang was known as the 'Sleeping Dragon' and had a reputation for being unpredictable and extremely cunning. He had won many battles by luring enemies into traps.
With word of the approaching army and ridiculously outnumbered, Liang ordered his men to quickly take down all flags, remove their uniforms and hide. He then put on a Taoist robe and sat atop the most visible part of the city wall where he lit incense, strummed his lute and began to chant - and wait.
Soon Sima accompanied by his 150,000 soldiers stood at the city gates where they instantly recognized the man on the wall.
Despite the fact his troops were itching to invade what appeared to be an unguarded city, Sima Yi, hesitated, held them back, and studied Liang on the wall. Then … he ordered an immediate and speedy retreat!
At the mercy of his enemy, facing certain death, General Liang had only one weapon at his disposal - his name and reputation.
The Bottom Line:
The lesson here, like so many rules for success and prosperity, lies in the fundamental understanding and wisdom no doubt passed down by my grandfather to my father who in turn passed on to me, “Your good name and your reputation are EVERYTHING! … Protect them at all costs!”
And as history’s General Chuko Liang so adroitly demonstrated - protect your name and reputation and just maybe one day they’ll return the favor!
Paul Shearstone
About The Author
Paul Shearstone aka The ‘Pragmatic Persuasionist’ is one of North America’s foremost experts on Sales and Persuasion. An International Keynote Speaker, Author, Writer, Motivation / Time & Stress Management Specialist, Paul enlightens and challenges audiences as he informs, motivates and entertains. To comment on this article or to book the Pragmatic Persuasionist for your next successful event we invite to contact Paul Shearstone directly at 416-728-5556 1-866-855-4590.
