Credibility Gives You A Voice

As a leader, you are in trouble when Competence outpaces Character. At the heart of Character is Credibility. In today’s guest post, Dan Rockwell shares some thoughts on how to build, and sustain, credibility with those you are privileged to lead. And it is a privilege, not a right! You earn the right to lead, not demand it.

Guest Post by Dan Rockwell

Credibility unlocks hearts.

Shadow work builds credibility quietly.

1. Character develops slowly.
2. Competence means you’re able.
3. Caring says you serve the interests of others.

Leaders who skip backstage work borrow credibility they haven’t earned. The debt comes due at the worst time. People shut them out.

7 Practices of Credibility that Give You Voice

Become the person people listen to.

1. Confident Steadiness: Process painful emotions quietly. Reject defensiveness. Learn from stinging criticism.
2. Avoid Outbursts: Go to bed. Leave work before you’re exhausted. Pause before you speak. Only open your mouth to make something better.
3. Maintain Focus: Filter the “great” ideas in your head. Identify glowing drivel. Ask, “How does this idea make things better?” Don’t run around showing how smart you are.
4. Sustain Success: Do an autopsy on success. Was winning luck? Are you as good as you think? Identify the key factors of success.
5. Multiply Contribution: Pour into yourself so you can pour out. What can you do today to grow your ability to make a difference?
6. Gain Authority: Investigate issues. Consider motivations and anxieties. Avoid quick judgments. Hold your tongue. Speak last.
7. Earn Respect: Let results explain effort. Celebrate how hard others are working. Appreciate people. Notice strengths. Challenge people to rise.

Influence begins in the dark and shines under pressure.

Don’t beg for opportunity. Prove readiness with quiet preparation. Don’t wait for applause. Do the unseen work.

Credibility supercharges influence.

What specific practices build credibility?

The Vagrant is the story of a leader who neglected the unseen work. Read the book to track the fall. and learn from the turnaround.