Most people spend a good deal of time thinking about how we are coming across to others versus how we perceive ourselves. It will be frustrating or worse when our contributions do not seem to be understood, accepted, or appreciated. We are wise to pay attention to how we are being perceived in personal life (e.g., how an in-law regards us as a parent), in professional life (e.g., how an administrator evaluates a project we created), and in community life (e.g., how family or friends react to a speech we present).

We each have our own goals for how we are understood by others and ourselves. These perceptions represent credibility , that is, our image, identity , reputation, or standing in a specific situation or relationship.

Having knowledge, skills, and experience is important

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