Book Review: The Speed Of Trust - Can You Keep Up?
Book Title and Edition: The Speed of Trust: The One Thing That Changes Everything
Author:Stephen M.R. Covey and Rebecca R. Merrill
Condensed Review/Thesis: The traditional business formula is strategy x execution = results. But what about the most significant factor - trust?
Author's Background: Stephen M.R. Covey is a seasoned executive and bestselling author who captivates audiences all over the world with his insight on leadership and results. Rebecca R. Merrill is an equally experienced leader and sought-after executive coach.
Intended Audience: Business leaders/owners, team leaders, managers.
Larry's Two Cents: The more accurate formula for business success is (strategy x execution) x trust. Trust is imperative; without it people and organizations will not "work." Yet, trust is difficult to understand and apply. We know when we trust, and when we don't. We know whom we trust, and whom we don't. Rarely do we consciously examine what we do to inspire - or destroy - trust. Now's your chance.
Can you lead if your followers don't trust you? Sure. They just won't go the extra mile. They won't buy into your vision. They won't get excited about the future or invested in their part of it. Covey argues that trust affects cost and speed: if trust is low, speed is slowed and costs go up. If trust is high, speed accelerates and costs decline. He argues that if you get "good at trust," it will make you better at everything you do. "Nothing is as fast as the speed of trust. Nothing is as profitable as the economics of trust."
Luckily, Covey offers a roadmap. He discusses the five different levels of trust and provides clear advice for developing your competencies in these areas. Want to become a more trustworthy leader? Or, more to the point, can you afford not to become a more trustworthy leader? Trust me [:)]; this is the book to read if you want/need to earn the trust of those around you.
When To Read This Book: A basic read... I have had "trust" conversations with EVERY leader with whom I have worked over the past 2 decades. YOU must understand trust and be sure it is present at all times.