Many researchers and philosophers have written about trust.
- Aristotle’s spoke of three modes of persuasion in rhetoric: Ethos, pathos, and logos. Even though not frequently mentioned, persuasion is about trust. It’s about getting people to trust you and what you are saying. These modes of persuasion are central to building trust.
- Frances Frei, Professor of Technology and Operations Management at the Harvard Business School school talks of Authenticity, Logical rigor, and Empathy as the essential elements of trust. I find these to be analogous to Aristotle’s Ethos, pathos, and logos.
- Brene Brown talks of the 7 elements of trust, which she represents by the acronym, BRAVING. Boundaries, Reliability, Accountability, Vault, Integrity, Non-judgment, and Generosity.
- Simon Sinek talks about trust stemming from shared beliefs and values.
- Daniel Pink speaks of mastery, autonomy, and purpose as things that motivate us. I find that people trust more when a relationship meets these needs.
- There are several excellent books on the subject, such as leadership consultant Stephen M.R. Covey’s book titled the speed of trust, neuroeconomist Paul J. Zak’s book called trust factor, and Charles Feltman’s book titled trust.
