WORKING as an account manager and sales professional for the past five years has taught me the importance of being trustworthy if you want to succeed. When it comes to dealing with clients, supervisors, and even coworkers, being #trustworthy outweighs intelligence, articulacy, hard effort, and even an MBA. So pay attention, because here are 3 simple ways you can boost your trustworthiness or put simply, build your #credibility.
1. Palabra de honor - Being true to your word
This is my grandpa’s mantra. I literally hear him say this every day, and now I do my best to live by it too. Never say something you are not going to do, whether it relates to big or small things. Here’s a perfect yet very simple example, if you tell your client (or boss) that you will send them an email by the end of the week, make sure you send them that email by the end of the week. The moment you say something, more so give a timeline on what you say you are going to do, expectations will be set by the receiver of your message. Once you do not meet those expectations, what do you think will happen? Also, if you fail to deliver on such simple tasks, how do you expect your client or other people, in general, to believe that you can deliver on bigger matters like actual work projects or sales quotas maybe? So by all means, keep your promises and if you can’t or fail to do so, proceed to numbers 2 and 3.
2. Communicate Clearly and Timely
Communication that is clear and timely is the best way to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings and conflicts. In the preceding example, a simple phone call or text explaining why you are unable to follow through will save you from a slew of problems. It will also deter any ill feelings your client or boss may have toward you. Remember, better late than never does not apply here; otherwise, your perfectly logical explanation may be misconstrued as a lame excuse for incompetence or deception.
Also, avoid saying, "I will do this by." Instead, say something like, "I should be able to do this or that by when, but I'll keep in touch just in case something comes up."
3. Apologize and Present Solutions
If, despite your best efforts, you make a mistake or screw up, take responsibility for your actions and #apologize immediately. When you admit that you have failed or disappointed your client (or boss), you validate their feelings and give them the comfort of knowing they have been heard. Always offer #solutions to the problem along with a sincere apology.
Once you begin to practice these, you will be on your way to becoming a better executive as well as a better person. And, as an added bonus, don't forget to #smile genuinely. I'm referring to the type of smile in which the corners of your mouth and cheeks are raised and the corners of your eyes crinkle. According to a Wharton Stories article, sales representatives, managers, and people in general who smile genuinely are perceived as more trustworthy and likely to provide better service. (Iresse Patricia O. Bulos, Contributor)