What are the most effective ways to build credibility with someone who doesn't know you?

1 Show genuine interest

One of the best ways to build credibility with someone who doesn't know you is to show genuine interest in them and their needs. This means asking open-ended questions, listening actively, and acknowledging their perspectives. By showing interest, you demonstrate that you care about them as a person, not just as a means to an end. You also show that you are curious, humble, and willing to learn from them.

2 Share relevant stories

Another way to build credibility with someone who doesn't know you is to share relevant stories that illustrate your values, skills, and achievements. Stories are powerful tools for communication, as they can evoke emotions, create connections, and convey messages. However, you need to be careful not to overshare, brag, or bore your audience. Choose stories that are relevant to the context, concise, and memorable. Use stories to highlight your strengths, challenges, and solutions, not to boast or complain.

4 Be consistent

A fourth way to build credibility with someone who doesn't know you is to be consistent in your words and actions. Consistency means that you follow through on your commitments, deliver on your expectations, and align your behavior with your values. Consistency shows that you are trustworthy, dependable, and authentic. Consistency also builds your reputation, as people will know what to expect from you and how to work with you.

6 Express gratitude

A sixth way to build credibility with someone who doesn't know you is to express gratitude for their time, attention, and cooperation. Gratitude is a powerful emotion, as it can foster positive relationships, enhance well-being, and increase satisfaction. By expressing gratitude, you show that you are appreciative, courteous, and generous. You also show that you are not taking them for granted or expecting anything in return.