Here’s an important business lesson I learned from my father about business integrity. It happened on a hot summer afternoon in the mid-1970’s. I was with my dad as he was negotiating a deal with a contractor. Let’s call the contractor John. The negotiations were bumpy but still civil and respectful.
Suddenly my father let out a deep sigh, leaned back in his chair, and said, “Well, John, it doesn’t look like we can make a deal today.” Without another word, my father stood up, shook John’s hand, and turned toward the door. It was sudden, almost abrupt, and a …