These 7 Habits Will Give You Credibility in the Office

Credibility is crucial in a demanding workplace. It enables co-workers to trust you and believe in you, so they feel confident in your ability to perform when it counts the most. With these seven habits, you can build credibility and boost your career.

Follow Through

One of the fastest ways to build credibility is to do what you say you're going to do. Following through on all promises and commitments demonstrates reliability, so colleagues know that they can count on you. Show up to meetings on time, and meet all deadlines. A pattern of dependability breeds trust, so superiors feel comfortable giving you promotions and greater responsibility.

Dress for the Job

In the workplace, image is important. How you look impacts the way others perceive your competence and abilities. A sloppy or overly casual appearance communicates a variety of negative things, including a lack of seriousness, poor attention to detail and low self-awareness. Build credibility by making it a habit to come to work looking neat and professional.

Be Transparent

Transparency and credibility go hand in hand. Professionals who conceal their actions and offer vague non-answers automatically appear shifty or suspicious. Create trust by embracing honest, forthright communication, especially when it's difficult. Taking responsibility for your mistakes goes a long way in building a strong professional reputation. Most importantly, tell the truth. When a lie is exposed, your credibility is instantly called into question.

Rely on Others

Credible professionals know the limits of their expertise. When a project is beyond your abilities, admit it and rely on colleagues to fill in the gaps. Delegating and sharing responsibility might feel like weakness, but it is a powerful expression of teamwork and self-awareness. It also demonstrates that you appreciate coworkers' knowledge and contributions, which creates an atmosphere of mutual respect.

Proofread

Professional communication has shifted with the advent of texting and Facebook. Set yourself apart — and impress the people who matter — by avoiding social media speak in all work-related messages. Proofread each text message and email to ensure it is concise, clear and typo-free. This small step can instantly build credibility and set you apart from less-precise colleagues.

Stay Current

In most industries, change is a constant. Build credibility by staying up-to-date on developments that impact your company and customers. Make it a daily habit to scan news headlines and read trade publications. Learn about the latest tools that impact your department, and maintain a working knowledge of any that seem relevant.

Build Your Skills

A credible professional reputation holds up only when you can support it with competent action. Back up a positive image with regular skill-building. Take professional development workshops, attend conference seminars or sign up for relevant classes at a local college. On a smaller scale, keep your existing skills fresh by requesting new responsibilities, practicing in your free time or volunteering for non-profit groups.

A reputation for credibility comes with a variety of benefits, from professional trust to opportunities for advancement. By establishing habits that build credibility, you can drive your career forward.

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