I was in a board meeting listening to a report about a $50 million fundraising campaign when the guy to my left – a captain of local industry – absent-mindedly stuck his left thumb into his nose and proceeded to roll the findings between his thumb and forefinger. After about seven rolls, he flicked his findings onto the floor. He continued this routine - thumb into nose; roll-roll-roll-roll; flick - for ten minutes.
It was distracting.
It was disgusting.
I tried to remember if we’d shaken hands before the meeting started.
I’ve been haunted by this scene in the weeks that have followed. Yes, the actions were disgusting. But I also felt disturbed. I think it’s because there’s a part of me that wants our leaders to be better than mere mortals. I want to feel that they’ll always have the right answers, perfect manners, and ultimate wisdom.
Booger-Boy is a great reminder that this just ain’t so. Our leaders are people - just like you and me. They put on their pants one leg at a time. They pick their noses. Sometimes in board meetings where other people can see them.
Having poor personal habits does not mean one is a poor leader. Sure, I’d prefer my leaders to keep their fingers out of their noses. And out of the company coffers. And off their interns. But all things being equal, I’ll take a nose-picker over a liar. Just don’t make me shake his hand.
Note: If you’re wondering when it’s okay to pick your nose in public, Don Burleson has written a straight-forward, contemporary guide on professional etiquette. The Miss Manners column in the Washington Post also has a nice collection of etiquette articles.
