Integrity – Trust – Credibility and Negotiation

I have learned a big lesson about trust over the last few years, from my own experience and observations, but also from a recent negotiation training I attended, which highlighted how important trust is in negotiation.

During the training, a metaphor called “The Speed of Trust” was shared—the four cores of credibility at different levels. Integrity is the root; then you need intent and competence to build credibility. And imagine a tree without roots—how long can it survive? There is a deep connection between integrity and trust.

Integrity is the root of trust, which builds credibility, and when credibility is present, life becomes much easier in negotiation.

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Over the past three years, I have always tried to be open and to trust other people’s genius at the beginning, believing that everyone comes with good intentions. And yes, some people do, and some people don’t.

I have built strong friendships with people who genuinely wish the best for each other, and together we have overcome tough times. At the same time, I have also recognized a pattern of people I can no longer trust—those who used my openness and vulnerability against me.

I learned this lesson, and I can’t find a better closing for my 2025.

I still choose to trust others but in a ‘smarter’ way, at least, I preserve my integrity.

Thank you.