Industry certifications, membership in professional associations, educational background and character references are examples of credibility. Building character strength, showing transparency and adhering to professional standards also establish credibility for a person and a business.
Credentials and certifications, especially from prestigious organizations, can greatly improve a person's credibility. They're proof that the person has undergone sufficient training and acquired the necessary skills to be proficient in a particular field. In addition to certifications, character references from past employers can vouch for the person's values or assets. Involvement in professional organizations also shows credibility. A person's membership in an organization indicates commitment and signifies that he accepts the beliefs and principles of that organization.
Traits that must be learned and maintained when developing personal and business credibility include honesty, competence, loyalty and accountability. Honesty helps preserve a positive professional reputation, whereas a single lie may be enough to sever a relationship irreversibly. Competence demonstrates one's capability of evaluating problems and providing appropriate solutions. Being loyal means the person is able to defend the interests of friends or colleagues. Accountability shows one's willingness to admit his mistakes and learn from them.
When a person is credible, other people consider him to be trustworthy. He becomes a reliable source of information, while his decisions have the power to sway other people's thinking or actions.
