Tim Howard defending the U.S. during this year's World Cup (Image: New York Times)
Anyone (and it seems like everyone) can make a claim to be the best, the smartest, the most effective, or the quickest. The more social media followers, higher your budget, celebrity status, gimmicks, or press releases you have – the larger your megaphone you have to tout your prowess.
In the beginning of a relationship, perception is reality, and in a strong (and forgiving) market, the honeymoon phase usually lasts a little longer. But….
Results are priceless.
So, when making an assessment about someone you’re about to engage with, check their references and research their results from a less forgiving market.
UPDATE: Congratulations to Tim Howard for quietly delivering the best goal keeping performance in World Cup history.