This document discusses how an organization's image can be effectively managed through its employees. It notes that managing image begins at the recruitment stage by assessing candidates' ability to exhibit the organization's values, which should then be communicated and reinforced. Open communication through systems that allow employee input can enhance the organization's image by eliminating barriers between leaders and employees. A positive internal culture can be acquired through teambuilding activities and positive messaging, and customers will be able to sense this positive culture through the professionalism of staff. The document concludes that an organization's employees are the mirror that reflects the organization's image to the public.

1. Gillian Martin
Trainer, Speaker & Social Entrepreneur
Captivating Solutions Consultancy

2.  First dates, job interviews and court hearings
all have something in common: they inspire us
to look our very best

3.  “You never get a second chance to make a first
impression” – Anonymous

4.  The need to impress is not tied to a single event
but must be preserved on a long-term basis

5.  While individuals strive to manage their
images, there is also a need to manage the
image of organizations

6.  When considering managing an organization’s
image, the first thing that comes to mind is
Public Relations

7.  An organization’s image can be effectively
managed and improved through its people

8.  In a 2008 report from CEOs in Jamaica, a
prominent CEO of a very successful financial
institution disclosed that ‘people focus’ was the
key management strategy being utilized at his
organization

9.  Managing image through employees begins as
early as at the recruitment stage where
candidates should be assessed on their ability
to exhibit the organization’s values

10.  Values are to be communicated to all members
during orientation and should be reinforced
throughout their tenure

11.  Open communication further enhances the
organization’s image

12.  Systems need to be implemented to allow
persons to have a voice and this will eliminate
unnecessary barriers between leaders and those
they lead

13.  Staff surveys, ‘think tanks’ and the erection of
‘open door’ policies will be viewed favourably
by staff members and reduce the likelihood of
them speaking negatively about the
organization to the public

14.  A positive internal culture can be acquired by
instituting meaningful teambuilding activities
such as internal competitions, fun days and the
distribution of positive messages via the
intranet and ‘pep-up’ sessions

15.  Customers will be able to sense the positive
culture by the level of professionalism and
efficiency that the staff exhibit.

16.  The people in an organization are the mirror
that reflects the organization’s image

17.  If you should have a glimpse in that mirror,
what image would be reflected of your
organization?

18. All honour be to the Lord
Jesus Christ who gives us the
capacity to manage and
maintain a wonderful image.