The Speed of Trust: 8 key ideas
The core ideas of The Speed of Trust, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.
- IDEA 1 OF 8
Trust speeds everything up
Covey argues that trust is not just a soft virtue but has real economic effects.
When trust is high, things happen faster and cost less; when trust is low, everything slows down and becomes more expensive.
- IDEA 2 OF 8
Trust begins with yourself
Covey describes self trust, keeping commitments to yourself and acting with integrity.
Others trust those who trust themselves. In Covey's view, if we often break our own promises, we lose confidence in ourselves, and so others see less reason to rely on us.
- IDEA 3 OF 8
Credibility has four cores
Covey identifies four cores of credibility: integrity, intent, capabilities and results.
Character and competence both matter. In Covey's view, a person may be honest but unskilled, or skilled but untrustworthy, and trust needs all four qualities together.
- IDEA 4 OF 8
Behaviours build trust
Covey lists thirteen behaviours of high-trust people, such as talking straight, showing respect, keeping commitments and extending trust.
These can be learned. In Covey's view, these habits are practical and visible, so anyone can begin to practise them and slowly build trust with others.
- IDEA 5 OF 8
Relationships need trust
Covey describes relationship trust, built through consistent behaviour.
Trust grows over time. In Covey's view, one kept promise after another adds to trust, while a single broken promise can undo much of it.
- IDEA 6 OF 8
Organisations depend on trust
Covey argues that organisations with high trust are more productive.
Low trust creates bureaucracy. In Covey's view, when people do not trust one another, they need more rules, checks and approvals, and these slow work down and cost more.
- IDEA 7 OF 8
Markets reward trust
Covey describes market trust, the reputation of a brand.
Trusted companies attract customers. In Covey's view, a company known as honest and reliable draws loyal customers, and its good name is a real advantage.
- IDEA 8 OF 8
Trust can be restored
Covey argues that trust, once lost, can sometimes be restored through consistent behaviour.
Effort is required. In Covey's view, it takes time and steady proof of changed behaviour to win back what was lost.
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