The importance of trust is an emerging topic in business these days, showing up in advertisements, blogs, books and in articles. But unlike most buzzwords, trust is an enduring concept.
Trust matters because it is at the core of everything we do. With it, few things are out of reach; without it, leadership is meaningless.
Aristotle defines his concept of ethos, or trust, as comprising three attributes: first, intelligence and competence; second, character (that is, reliability and honesty); and third, goodwill.
These same elements of competence, reliability, honesty and consistency continue to form the foundation of trust. Cultivate these elements within yourself, and the trust of others will follow.
So how can you earn trust?
