Entering the job market without a solid reputation can be like jumping out of an airplane without a parachute. If you don't already have one, it's probably too late. Trust, honesty and integrity are cornerstone elements of any effective business relationship.
People do business with people they like and trust, especially in Kansas City.
A good reputation is especially important in a market the size of Kansas City, said Jerry Hellebusch, owner of Morgan Hunter Corporate Search, an employment service in Overland Park. The cleaner you can keep your reputation, the better off you will be. Character ultimately shows through on the job. Rod Handley has grappled with that question as an executive with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and now as founder of Character that Counts in Lee's Summit. Handley has written extensively about character and works with several NFL teams.