Trust Yields Traction

Trust is what allows us to actually do our jobs.

Without it, even the clearest message can be ignored—or worse, misinterpreted.

In our industry, we’re often navigating sensitive topics, complex science, and high-stakes audiences.

And whether we’re working with internal partners or external stakeholders, the same principle applies: If there’s no trust, there’s no traction.

The 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer highlights something we’re all feeling—trust in institutions is slipping, and public grievance is rising. 

People are skeptical of leaders who seem to serve narrow interests. 

That context follows us into every conversation we have, whether we’re advising executives, guiding a research team’s data release, or engaging with investors.

These relationships aren’t built through polish alone. They’re built through consistency, transparency, and follow-through.

When trust breaks down, our influence does too.

People pull back, question our intent, or bypass us altogether.

Harvard Business Review found that high-trust environments see 50% higher productivity and 76% more engagement. 

It’s a reminder that trust is strategic. 

It affects how teams show up, how fast we can move, and how willing people are to listen and act.

Something to reflect on: Where are the trust gaps in your own work right now, and what would it take to start closing them?