A successful businessman wanted to know something most managers never see: how his employees treated those they considered “less important.”
To test them, he came up with a simple but revealing method. He disguised himself as a janitor, wearing a plain uniform, and went to his office building early in the morning. His plan was to observe his employees’ true character — without the filter of their usual interactions with a boss.
One employee walked past him while he was cleaning the floor. Without hesitation, the employee poured a full bucket of water over the “janitor,” mocking him and showing no concern for his efforts. At that moment, the CEO saw the real side of this employee — impatient, arrogant, and careless.
Later in the day, the employee returned to the office, confident and unaware that he was about to face the consequences of his actions. Out of nowhere, the CEO appeared, holding the very same bucket of water. He mirrored the earlier action, showing the employee exactly how it feels to be treated without respect.
This eye-opening encounter left a lasting impression. The lesson was clear: true character is revealed not in meetings, emails, or résumés, but in how we treat those who are quieter, less powerful, or unseen.
It’s a powerful reminder that respect, empathy, and kindness are not optional — they define who we really are.