Summary
The following are enemies of trust:
- Dishonesty, not always telling the truth
- Moral weakness, giving in under pressure
- Being insincere in your dealings
- Betrayal of confidences, gossiping
- Unreliability in tasks and relationships
- Lack of credibility, personal or professional
- Leaving the client vulnerable and exposed
- Unfair in your dealings
- Continually changing your mind
- Indecisive approach to task and people
- Carelessness on the job
- Holding cards close to your chest
- Catalogue of broken promises
- Talk in terms of 'me' and 'I'
- Disloyal to the client
- Egocentric worker
The following build trust through trustworthiness:
- Always keep promises, even when it is costly or inconvenient
- Be conscientious and dependable in all that you do
- Take yourself off the throne, be prepeared to 'serve' your client
- Demonstrate consistency in tasks and approach
- Act on principles, not emotions or impulses
- Be open and honest with no ulterior motives
- Don't criticise, condemn or complain
- Carry out work in a friendly manner
- Offer sincere praise and appreciation
- Let the client save face
- Help the client to have a good reputation to live up to
- If you are wrong, admit it
- Work on your character, reverse the flaws
- Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses
- Don't settle for the easy options
- Take your responsibility seriously
Becoming more trustworthy
The truth is there are times in all of our lives when we could be more trustworthy, both at home and at work.
Ken Buist's company has a number of free items to help you in that quest.
See Ken Buist's contact page for more information.
©2006 Ken Buist