10 Ways to improve your trustworthiness

Leaders and managers spend a lot of time and efforts figuring out how to develop people’s talent, shape their performance, and motivate them to improve.

But when was the last time we focused on ourselves? Specifically, how’s our credibility? Does it need some attention? Here are 10 ways to boost our credibility with associates, customers, and everyone else within our sphere of influence.

1. Demonstrate ownership and a sense of urgency. Our associates and customers want a quick turnaround when they have a problem or concern. Show them they matter.

2. Be clear on when we will respond. When a problem or concern arises, quickly communicate details on how we will fix the issue, and ensure it doesn’t happen again.

3. Return calls and emails promptly. Don’t let emails sit in the inbox unanswered, and don’t hide behind the voicemail—especially if we’ve made a mistake. Be reachable.

4. Meet face-to-face when possible. Email is handy, but it isn’t the right mode of communication for resolving conflicts, having discussions, or expressing feelings.

5. Be open, candid, and transparent. Don’t withhold information that we should be sharing. Don’t force others to ask for the truth; volunteer it. Being open instills trust.

6. Earn trust—don’t ask for it. The worst thing a manager can say is “Trust me!” Build credibility with own actions and we’ll never have to ask for it.

7. Follow through with agreements. If we say we’re going to do something, do it. Never make others beg for information that we said we would provide.

8. Admit the mistakes. Be accountable for own actions. Nothing destroys credibility more than blaming everyone else and refusing to point out finger.

9. Restate commitments. If a customer or associate agrees to anything, restate back to them what they’ve just agreed to. That way there will be surprises—from us or from them.

10. Set a good example. If we blame others, worry, get hysterical, do things in a mediocre way, have disorganized methods, or fail to see others’ potential, so will our associates.