What is Your Credibility Index?

What is Your Credibility Index?

October 2, 2024

What makes a leader effective and influential? Is it charisma, vision, skills, or something else? In this blog post, I will argue that the most important factor for leadership success is credibility. Credibility is the quality of being trusted and believed in by others. It is the cornerstone of effective leadership and lasting influence. John C. Maxwell’s famous quote on credibility says, ‘Credibility is a leader's currency. With it, he or she is solvent; without it, he or she is bankrupt.” Think of a bank account in the red; now, think of a leader whose perceived credibility is in the red.

Why is credibility so important?

Because without it, leaders cannot inspire, motivate, or persuade others to follow them. People will not listen to leaders who lack credibility, or who are inconsistent, dishonest, or unreliable. People will not follow leaders who do not practice what they preach, or who do not care about their followers' needs and interests. People will not respect leaders who do not have integrity, competence, or character.

How can leaders build and maintain credibility?

Here are some personal factors to work on. (More on this in our upcoming webinar)

- Be consistent. Do what you say you will do and do it well. Follow through on your promises and commitments. Align your words and actions with your values and principles. Do not change your mind or behavior based on convenience or pressure.

- Be reliable. Deliver on your expectations and responsibilities. Meet your deadlines and standards of quality. Provide support and guidance to others when needed. Do not let others down or disappoint them.

- Be respectful. Treat others with dignity and courtesy. Listen to their opinions and perspectives. Acknowledge their contributions and achievements. Appreciate their diversity and differences. Do not judge or criticize them unfairly.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Latest Articles

All Articles
Will AI Take Over Your Job in 2025? 6 Essential Digital & AI Skills for Today’s Workplace

Will AI Take Over Your Job in 2025? 6 Essential Digital & AI Skills for Today’s Workplace

The World Economic Forum has stated that a staggering 85 million jobs could be displaced globally by 2025 thanks to AI. Those are some anxiety-inducing numbers!

Learning and Development
Mindset of the Daring Personal Dispositions for Winning in 2025

Mindset of the Daring Personal Dispositions for Winning in 2025

Your mindset acts as the lens through which you view the world. It influences how you respond to setbacks, seize opportunities, and navigate complexities. By adopting empowering mental, emotional, and ethical frames, you unlock new possibilities and emerge stronger in an ever-changing world.

Leadership
The Gig Economy: How Freelance Work is Revolutionizing Employment in Nigeria in 2025

The Gig Economy: How Freelance Work is Revolutionizing Employment in Nigeria in 2025

Nigeria’s gig economy is transforming the employment landscape, offering flexibility and opportunities for freelancers and businesses alike. A recent World Bank report revealed that Nigeria, alongside Kenya and South Africa, accounts for 80.6% of Sub-Saharan Africa’s internet traffic to online gig platforms.

Learning and Development