The Speakers Group

Speakers Bureau, Motivational Keynote Speakers, Speaker Marketing

  • Book A Speaker
    • 2023 Kickoff Speakers
  • Are You A Speaker?
  • Blog
  • Contact
    • About

Do the People Around You Trust You?

By TSG

Do People Trust You?

Following is a guest post by leadership and communication speaker Michelle Tillis Lederman.

Did this question make you feel a little nauseous in the pit of your stomach? My mind did something like, “Yes! I think so… I hope so! Do they?” Then I started going through people in my mind to reconfirm my initial belief. Trust is this amorphous concept that we all know but we all may define a little differently.

So I took the idea to my trainings. During a module on building trust, I ask a group to write a definition of the word.

I enjoy the conversation I eavesdrop on. I have overheard participants discuss the idea from the noun, verb, and adjective angles. At the end, they always come up with a definition, but I have NEVER gotten the same definition twice. But there were a couple that really stuck out to me:

“Trust is the expectation of predictability.” 

​​​​​​​“Trust is a feeling or connection that creates a bond rooted in certainty, reliability, and consistency. There is no timeline for creation or destruction: It is fluid.” 

The conversation continues into how we build, break, and restore trust. It was that part of the activity that brought me an Ah-Ha moment (what I am always trying to create for my audience!).

A client that had been to several of my programs responded to the question, “How is trust broken in organizations?” She nonchalantly said, “Spying”. I made a confused, questioning face at her like, “What do you mean? Spying?!?” Thinking, that doesn’t really happen, does it? She replied, “You know…Be my eyes and ears,” and suddenly I understood.

People use this phrase all the time. But that doesn’t make the actual practice correct. We often do things that we think are just a part of the way the business world works — but really, these things are eroding the trust of the people around us.

I’ve referenced the Four Pillars of Trust in past blogs: Authenticity, Vulnerability, Transparency, and Consistency. Each of these pillars is an integral part of building trust with those around you – none can be neglected.

If you want to build trust, you also have to hold trust. Consider how your words and behaviors may have different interpretations. Prevent those actions that can erode the trust of those around you. Read more about the Four Ways to Build Trust here and make sure you’re taking the right steps in your relationships.

How do you define trust? What does trust mean to you? Share your definition on Twitter and use hashtag #TrustIs and tag me so that I can see it!

About the Author, Michelle Tillis Lederman

Michelle Tillis Lederman has been named one of Forbes Top 25 Networking Experts, is the author of three books including The 11 Laws of Likability and Nail the Interview, Land the Job. A certified ICF coach, Michelle founded Executive Essentials which provides custom leadership and communications training and coaching programs. A former finance executive and NYU Professor Michelle is a regular in the media. Appearances include NBC, CBS, Fox, Gayle King, NPR, the Wall Street Journal, NY Times, Working Mother, US News & World Report, Monster.com, USA Today, CNBC, and others. She holds degrees from Lehigh University and Columbia Business School. Learn more about engaging Michelle to speak at your event here.

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Michelle Tillis Lederman, relationships speakers, Trust Speakers

Check Michelle’s Availability

  • MM slash DD slash YYYY
  • Hidden
    It's your booking, your way! You choose if you want the full support of The Speakers Group, or if you prefer to work directly with the speaker.

Buy Michelle’s Books

More from Michelle

  • Visit Michelle’s Website
  • Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn
  • Read Michelle’s Latest Blog Post

Our Clients Speak

I’ve had the privilege of working with many great speakers and speakers agencies through the years and my experience with you ranks among the best. You’re never pushy, always friendly, and you make sure every little detail is in place to help me create a successful event. You are a true pro!

The “Good Advice” Blog

  • Top Resilience Speakers for Inspiring and Motivating Business Leaders
  • Making Lemonade from Sour Customer Experiences: How to Win When Most Lose
  • REBOOT: Is Your Team Built to Thrive in 2021?
  • New Online Sales Training Helps You Go From Invisible to Irresistible with Your Ideal Clients… Even in Times of Crisis
  • What Your Team Needs Right Now: Certainty

About The Speakers Group

More than a speakers bureau, The Speakers Group is your gateway to a selection of the world's best speakers, experts and thought leaders -- each unique, but each united by a mission to help people live better lives, build better businesses and create amazing events. [Learn More …]

Let’s Connect

By Phone: 615-526-6600
By Email: Click Here

Social Networks

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Looking for Something Else?

Copyright © 2003 - 2023 The Speakers Group Inc. · All rights reserved · Powered by Eugen Oprea