Why predictability can help you to build up trust and success
RICHARD SEXTON
HEAD OF ASSURANCE, PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS
1. Focus on the things you can do something about
Stuff happens in life and business and you have to learn to work with it. My attitude is that I can’t boil the ocean but a cup of water is a different matter. In today’s difficult economic environment this is particularly true as you can waste a lot of energy (and sleep!) worrying about things that you cannot and will not change, whatever you do.
2. You have to earn others’ trust, but once you have it make sure you never abuse it
If you are genuine and consistent in your behaviour and actions others will respond. Some may say predictability is a weakness – I see it as a strength and it certainly doesn’t stop you from being innovative and challenging. Having strong values and ethics and always acting in line with them is key to your own happiness and contentment, no matter how others may act. “Trust arrives on foot and leaves on horseback.”
3. Nobody ever succeeded on their own
Don’t grab the limelight – it is always a team effort. Make sure you take pleasure in others’ success and the part you have played in helping them. You amplify your impact by helping others be more successful and the team will get a lot more enjoyment from the whole experience. Remember to say thank you to all those who have helped. It is amazing how a little word of thanks goes a long way.
4. It is amazing what you find out if you listen
People generally react in a positive way when you show you are actively listening to what they are saying. You should never assume that someone, whoever they are, can’t add to your own knowledge and understanding. Never assume any conversation has no value; you just may find out that key piece of information is hiding in the most unlikely of places.
5. Use technology, but make sure you don’t let it use you
Make sure you put your Blackberry away when you are in a meeting, and pay attention to the conversation you are having. Don’t sit there with your laptop computer on in front of you, your phone or Blackberry on the table and your eyes on the screen. Those emails, calls or texts can wait. You owe it to the people you are with to concentrate on them and what they are saying.
Richard was talking to Jeremy Hazlehurst