There’s more to being honest than simply never telling a lie. If you want to build trust with those around you, be ready to share information that you don’t necessarily have to.
Photo by Lars Plougmann.
As business blog Entrepreneur points out, if you’re open about aspects of your life or business, the people (or public) around you are more likely to be willing to trust you. This stems from our natural tendency to be wary of things we don’t know. If you’re willing to share when you don’t have to, the people you’re sharing with will be put at ease.
For example, two months ago Reuters reported on a lawsuit filed against a division of the USDA for the agency’s failure to respond and provide requested information to a food safety advocacy group seeking details about genetically modified crops.
It doesn’t matter if its intentional deceit on a micro scale or calculated stonewalling at the macro level. Trust is the victim in both instances.
Of course, everyone has things they’d rather not discuss. Not every secret is nefarious, either. However, if you’re willing to be open about the little things, those around you may be more comfortable trusting you with the rest.
5 Obvious-Yet-Underused Ways to Build Trust [Entrepreneur]
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