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8 Credibility Busters that are Ruining Your Career

Do you ever get the feeling that people just DON’T TRUST YOU?

Have you lost support from colleagues around the firm?

If so, it’s time to reflect on what you are doing to hurt your personal credibility.

Ask yourself - How many of these CREDIBILITY BUSTERS am I guilty of?

• You’re a frequent teller of little white lies.

Sure, white lies may seem harmless – but get caught by a client or colleague and your credibility is busted. When you lose someone’s trust, you can never get it back.

• You make the same excuses.

You can destroy your personal credibility by offering the same excuse to the same people – even if they’re legit.

• You are not a flexible problem solver.

It’s okay to follow policies and enforce them however it’s not okay for you to only rely on the rules. Be flexible enough to help others solve problems.

• You come across as a “know it all” even when you’re just thinking out loud.

Introverted people may be put off by your tendency to express yourself verbally when you’re thinking. Always preface this action by telling people what you are doing.

• You put others down to pull yourself up.

Each "put down" will not only bust your credibility – it’ll cost you friends.

People trust positive people, not “sour grapes."

• You do everything yourself - but tend do it half-heartedly.

It’s understandable that you don’t want to let anyone down, but when you take on too much – one of your commitments is bound to suffer.

It’s far better to say no to some things than do a poor job at everything.

• You keep your staff in the dark.

Take a moment to get your staff’s input on a potential project and let them know your thought process. These steps will enhance your credibility as a leader.

• You frequently break or reschedule appointments.

As general rule, trust is broken after two or more appointments are broken or rescheduled. Make an appointment - and keep it.

Make a point to affirm your credibility among your clients and colleagues - and SAVE your legal career from ruin.

Adapted from: Credibility Busters That Could Ruin Your Career by Sandy Allegier, American Management Association.