I have two peers in the same role who have equal tenure and level of expertise – yet they get very different reactions from the people around them.
One is followed up with, copied again, and quietly double-checked.
The other is trusted, looped in appropriately, and left alone to execute.
Same capability. Very different interactions. Why?
It’s not talent or intent. It’s the trust they’ve built over time. Here are three elements of trusted professionals that set my two peers apart.
Common Behaviors of Trusted Professionals
1. They do what they say they’ll do (especially the small stuff).
High-trust professionals aren’t flashy. They’re reliable.
They meet deadlines or renegotiate early. They follow through. They close loops.
Most trust isn’t lost in big failures. It erodes when small commitments quietly slide and no one names it.
When people stop wondering whether you’ll deliver, credibility compounds.
2. They tell the truth early, kindly, and clearly.
Trust erodes fastest when people feel surprised, misled, or managed around.
High-trust professionals share bad news early. They name risks.
They say “I don’t know yet” or “I missed this” without defensiveness.
No spin. No last-minute reveals. No hidden agendas.
Clarity builds confidence – even when the message isn’t great.
3. They show good judgment with people and information.
This one is quieter, but very powerful.
They protect confidentiality. They avoid gossip. They escalate thoughtfully. They treat people with respect, even when things get tense or messy.
People trust you when they believe you’ll use information, and influence, responsibly.
It’s clear to see that my peer who misses deadlines and keeps information to themselves isn’t viewed as trustworthy as the other. And with good reason.
Quick Reflection
If I ask myself where I fall on the “trust-o-meter”, it’s likely that my self-assessment might differ from how others view me. The reality is likely somewhere in the middle.
Ask yourself the questions below to gain perspective and identify any blind spots you might have into your trustworthiness.
- Where do people trust me without checking up on my progress?
- Where do they still feel the need to follow up?
- What small behavior, repeated consistently, would build trust the fastest?
Trust isn't built by saying the right thing. It's built by being the person that others don't have to worry about.