Recently in Europe I met with a senior executive who was at pains to advise of his Board member status during our introduction; something I found a little strange as it was common knowledge to all in attendance. I have since learned this behaviour is typical of this executive and now understand it to be repeated across business forums and geographies.

Significantly and far more alarming when meeting a key partner in the Asian region and in the company of their major customer (enjoying a mutually rewarding 10 year relationship) this executive announced in full bravado “I am a Board member and should our partner ever let you down you might contact me personally.” To this the client replied “we have been working with your partner for about 10 years with trust and respect clearly established.” The friction that followed was of great concern to the partner and their client.

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