Appearance Quote by Samora Machel
“Smartness, a good appearance, courtesy, delicacy are not yet norms, are not yet an integral part of the approach of workers in the state apparatus, of their approach either to work or to dealing with the public.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks on Public Service, 1979
Workers in state jobs often lack basic civility and professionalism, which should be standard expectations.
In simple terms: Public servants need basic courtesy and professionalism.
Key Takeaway
Demand higher standards in public service.
Themes
public service
professionalism
citizen relations
bureaucracy
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
commentary
When to use this quote
- government offices
- customer service
- public interactions
- policy implementation
Key Concepts
civility
integrity
work ethic
Questions to Reflect On
- How can institutions embed courtesy into daily routines?
- What incentives promote professional behavior?
A Different Perspective
Changing norms takes time and systemic reform.
