Building Trust

Whom do you trust?

?It seems that at every turn one institution after another, ones that were previously trusted, are now being discredited. Skepticism, bordering on cynicism, seems to be on the rise. For example, do you trust the science? Do you trust politicians? Do you trust your fellow citizens?

?Since 2020, the early stages of the pandemic, trust in scientists declined by 14 points.? In 1958, nearly 75% of Americans trusted the government. Since 2007 trust in the government has not surpassed 30%. According to Gallup, only 21% of U.S. employees strongly trust the leadership of their organization.

?Perhaps it goes without saying that trust is a key factor in the establishment of long-term relationships between an organization and its customers. Edelman, a global communications firm, has been conducting a survey that tracks the level of trust in business, government, media and non-government organizations since 1999. In their research, they found that trust-building lies in two key areas:? integrity and engagement.

?Simon Sinek, as quoted by Elizabeth McIntyre in her article “Earning people’s trust is pretty simple,” has said, “Trust is maintained when values and beliefs are actively managed. If companies do not actively work to keep clarity, discipline and consistency in balance, then trust starts to break down.”

?Do you know what that sounds like? It sounds like “Do what you said you would do.” This is the clarifying statement of the value of integrity at The Rhino Group. Our five values form the acronym CRASH (a group of rhinos) and include Character, Responsiveness, Advancement, Servanthood, and Heart.

?If we are to be an organization that can be trusted, we must do what we said we would do. We must exemplify good character. By continuing to do so, opportunities will come your way time and again.