As we know, relational capital and trust-building are the new currency. It is not what you know, it’s who you know. It’s actually even more than that. People are asking the question, “Who can I trust?” We must think about authentically and readily engaging in behaviors that intentionally build trust. Consider these 6 key ways to build trust inspired by Michael Hyatt.

1. Keep Your Word

This is where it starts. You have to keep your word and follow through. This means you have to be careful what you say, remember what you say, and complete what you say. Don’t be flippant. If you say you are going to pray for someone, get back to someone, or get something done, make it happen. If not, follow up on why it’s not going to happen and state when you are going to work on it. 

2. Tell the Truth

We all might think we are truth-tellers, but it is too easy to exaggerate, embellish, or twist things just a little bit. Commit to telling the truth when it is hard, and even when it hurts. You don’t have to be perfect, but the best you can. Be open and honest.

3. Be Transparent and Authentic

Work hard to be vulnerable, more than you are comfortable with most of the time. Take off your mask and share with people who you really are. It is so much better to allow people to see the great in you, rather than puffing up and being something that you are not. You do not want to do business with people who don’t like the true self anyway, so be transparent and authentic. Work to accept others where they are at, love people where they are at, and model and affirm that vulnerability with others by being both compassionate and empathetic.

4. Be Generous

Give without strings attached. Nothing builds trust like love. How can you use love as the “killer app?” Be proactive in looking for the needs of others. Sacrifice and choose to be a go-giver, giving with generosity and engagement.

5. Ask for Forgiveness

Since you know you have wronged people, even if they do not know it, be someone who asks for forgiveness and has the courage to admit when they are wrong and where they went off track.

6. Show all Your Cards

If people don’t know your motives or you have not stated them, most people will make them up on their own. People will do well with knowing where you’re at and what you’re thinking. Explaining your why or motives or showing your cards helps them understand the other layers underneath what you are thinking. As much as possible, if you can, state the why or the end game, where your heart is, or what you are really trying to go after. Even if is a bit self-serving, that is ok. Showing your cards and sharing what is just under the surface of a project, task or strategy will help people not make up stories themselves.

Doing this can help you create meaningful relationships with others. To learn more techniques like this one, check out more of our blogs and start building an even better version of you!