The ability to build trust is one of the core capabilities of any leader. And yet, while we have an intuitive feel for when trust is present, or when it's absent. It is difficult sometimes to identify the exact building blocks of trust.

The trust equation that David Maister helps shed light on how to build trust with others. According to the trust equation three things build trust.

First credibility. Credibility is the words we say the skills and credentials, we bring, and the way in which others experience our expertise.

Second Reliability. Reliability is the actions we take our predictability, and the ways in which others find this dependable.

Third, intimacy. Intimacy is the extent to which others feel they can confide in us, and perceive us as discreet and empathetic human and safe.

And there is one thing, that destroys trust, namely self orientation. Self orientation is the extent to which others feel we are focused on ourselves, rather than on them. And no matter how strong your credibility reliability and intimacy are, if you're high on self orientation, If you're focused on yourself, then building trust is difficult.

So, as you think about the trust equation its four elements, credibility, reliability, intimacy, and self orientation, which element do you value most in others? Which element do you think others value most in you?

For this and other perspectives on growing your leadership, please visit https://www.thnk.org

Directed, Written and Narrated by Rajiv Ball
(https://www.thnk.org/community/people/rajiv-ball/)
Animation by Sarah Nguyen
(https://www.thnk.org/community/people/sarah-nguyen/)
Executive Produced by Mark Vernooij
(https://www.thnk.org/community/people/mark-vernooij/)