The Underrated Power of Reliability: Insights from a Rainy Park Run

This Saturday morning, as I laced up my running shoes and prepared for a Park Run, the weather was less than inviting. It was wet, cold, and the turnout was sparse. Yet, as I stood there, ready to run, a powerful insight struck me: “Showing up” is the key to performance. This simple act of being present, despite the conditions, is a profound predictor of success, not just in running but in all areas of life, including business.

The Trust Equation

The Trust Equation, formulated by David Maister, Charles Green, and Robert Galford in their book “The Trusted Advisor,” is a powerful framework for understanding trust. It is expressed as:

Trust=(Credibility+Reliability+Intimacy) / Self-Orientation

While each component is crucial, I believe that Reliability is often the most underrated aspect. This insight was crystallized for me during that chilly Park Run. Let’s delve into why reliability, or simply “showing up,” is so vital.

The Power of Showing Up

When I arrived at the Park Run, despite the adverse weather, I realized that the few who showed up were the ones truly committed. This commitment is a powerful predictor of performance. In running, as in business, those who consistently show up, regardless of the conditions, are the ones who achieve great results.

Reliability is about consistency. It’s about being there, day in and day out, doing the work, and meeting expectations. This consistency builds trust over time. When people know they can count on you to be there, to deliver, and to perform, trust is established.

Reliability in Business

In the business world, reliability is a cornerstone of trust. Teams and leaders who consistently show up and deliver results are the ones who earn the trust of their colleagues, clients, and stakeholders. Here are a few ways reliability manifests in a business context:

1. Consistent Performance: Just like in running, where regular training leads to better race performance, in business, consistent effort leads to better results. Teams that reliably meet deadlines, achieve targets, and maintain quality standards are trusted to deliver.
2. Dependability: Reliability means being dependable. When team members know they can rely on each other, it fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment. This dependability is crucial for building strong, cohesive teams.
3. Predictability: In a world full of uncertainties, predictability is a valuable trait. Reliable individuals and teams provide a sense of stability and predictability, which is essential for long-term planning and decision-making.
4. Accountability: Reliable people take responsibility for their actions. They own their successes and their failures, and they learn from both. This accountability builds trust and respect within the team.

The Link Between Reliability and Trust

Trust is not built overnight. It is the result of consistent, reliable behaviour over time. When people see that you show up, do the work, and deliver results, they begin to trust you. This trust is the foundation of strong relationships, whether in personal life or business.

During that wet and cold Park Run, I realized that the simple act of showing up was a testament to reliability. It was a commitment to the process, regardless of the immediate conditions. This same principle applies to business. The individuals and teams who show up, put in the work, and consistently deliver are the ones who build trust and achieve long-term success.

It also made me reflect on my own teams and how we build and maintain trust. I have exceptional people I work with and for. All of them have this trait of being reliable - they say what they are going to do and they do it. And we hold each other to account on this. Every day my team have permission to hold me to account on being reliable (and they do, which I am very grateful for) and the same is reciprocated.

Practical Steps to Enhance Reliability

1. Set Clear Expectations: Ensure that everyone on your team knows what is expected of them. Clear expectations provide a roadmap for reliable performance.
2. Be Consistent: Consistency is key to reliability. Develop routines and habits that support consistent performance. Whether it’s regular team meetings, consistent communication, or routine check-ins, consistency builds reliability.
3. Communicate Effectively: Open and honest communication is essential for reliability. Keep your team informed about progress, challenges, and changes. Effective communication ensures that everyone is on the same page and can rely on each other.
4. Follow Through: Always follow through on your commitments. If you say you will do something, do it. Following through builds trust and demonstrates reliability.
5. Learn from Mistakes: Reliability does not mean perfection. Mistakes will happen. What matters is how you handle them. Own your mistakes, learn from them, and make improvements. This approach builds trust and reliability over time.

Conclusion

The insight I gained from that rainy Park Run is simple yet profound: Showing up is the key to performance. In both running and business, reliability is a powerful predictor of success. By consistently showing up, doing the work, and delivering results, we build trust and achieve great things.

In the Trust Equation, reliability may be the most underrated element, but it is undoubtedly one of the most important. It is the foundation upon which trust is built. So, whether you’re lacing up your running shoes for a 5km run or preparing for a crucial business meeting, remember that showing up is half the battle. Be reliable, be consistent, and trust in the performance to come.

Let’s embrace the power of reliability and build a future where trust and performance go hand in hand.