It takes extra effort to earn trust. And I like to believe the best in mankind and to believe we are all trustworthy. Unfortunately, in today’s world there is so much rhetoric and “washing” going on that it is hard to know which statements are accurate and how they impact you. Is a diet cookie that has 220 calories really much better than its standard 230-calorie model? Is something “green” if it takes four times the energy to recycle as it would to produce new?

I was raised in Southwest Kansas where the farmers have always done things that would be considered “green” by today’s standards, not to hype that they were environmentally responsible but because their livelihood depended on it. Digging through the white wash and seeing what lies beneath is where you find trust.

Being upfront and honest about who you are, what your limitations will be and what someone should expect — that is where you earn trust. Gentle honesty, letting people know as soon as you see an issue or have a concern. Discussing with the team areas that could impact the project, then letting the team work together on a solution. Listening to feedback from every team member in regards to all aspects of the project, accepting the fact that you are not the only source for knowledge on a given subject. Knowing that you are not the final say in any decisions and respecting the team leader and the client. Having a clear set of goals and expectations from the start so the team knows what we are striving to achieve and how we plan to help each team member achieve success. Communicating when those expectations are in jeopardy so the team can make adjustments as needed. These are the steps and characteristics that build trust.

One can say they are trustworthy but even dishonest people can say that. Actions will always speak louder than words.