Credentials
Credentials such as a software developer with a computer science degree from a well known university.Experience
Experiences that are relevant to a situation. For example, a sailing instructor who has sailed around the world with many interesting stories to tell.Reliability
A track record of doing what you promise and of being right about things.Quality
A work that speaks for itself. For example, a chef that earns instant credibility with the quality of her work.Performance
Performance that speaks for itself such as a jazz musician who earns instant credibility with his peers by playing well.Fidelity
Faithfulness and loyalty such as a financial advisor who always represents the best interests of clients.Precision
Precision in work and communications. For example, a news article that states a firm "grew top line revenue at 47% last year" as opposed to stating a firm is "growing crazy fast."Evidence
Offering evidence to support your advice. For example, a doctor who prints out a study for a patient to read.Accuracy
The correctness of work and communications. For example, an email that doesn't have any factual, spelling or grammatical errors.Process
Following a process. For example, scientists are expected to strictly adhere to the scientific method as a fundamental basis of credibility.Confidence & Conviction
Displays of confidence and conviction such as an investment advisor who follows their own advice.Norms
Following the norms that people associate with your profession. For example, a doctor with a proper office.Culture
Immersion in a culture such as a chef at a Japanese restaurant in Texas who was born in Japan, spent significant time there or who is a member of the Japanese American community.Diligence
Making an appropriate level of effort to get things right. For example, a newspaper that fact checks all articles.Empathy
Showing that you care such as a doctor who appears to be sympathetic such that you believe they have thoroughly considered their advice.Charisma
Personal presence such as a company CEO who easily influences and motivates the people around them.Visual Appeal
Visual appeal such as a magazine that is well designed. The physical appearance of people is also known to influence perceptions of credibility. For example, a person might be perceived as having an "honest face."Social Status
Social status such as the people you know. For example, a consultant with many professional connections.Communication
Written and verbal communication skills such as an executive who is a brilliant public speaker.Objectivity
Demonstrating that you are fair, open and don't have a hidden agenda. For example, presenting ideas in a balanced way without being feeble and intrepid such that you lack any reasonable viewpoint whatsoever.Argument
The ability to defend your positions when challenged.Authority
Formal authority such as an individual with a high position in a respected organization.Street Cred
The ability to gain respect from those closest to the situation. For example, a social science professor known for her theories on poverty who actually goes out and volunteers in poor communities on the weekend such that she gains respect amongst the communities that she theorizes about.Integrity
Evidence that you are honest and principled. For example, getting caught in a lie can result in a complete loss of credibility.| Overview: Credibility | ||
Type | ||
Definition | The degree of belief and trust ascribed to a person or entity. | |
Related Concepts | ||
