Trust is an essential part of any human relationship, including friendship, marriage and business partnerships. If you don’t trust someone, it’s much more difficult to interact with them. One of the questions we’re sometimes asked is “Can I trust Home Watch in my home?”
What is Trust?
According to Paul Thagard, Ph.D. in Psychology Today, trust can be defined as:
- A set of behaviors, like acting in ways that depend on another
- A belief in a probability that a person will behave in certain ways
- An abstract mental attitude that someone is dependable
- A feeling a confidence and security that another person cares
- A complex neural process that binds diverse representations
How Does One Build Trust?
Before you can trust anyone, you have to build a trust relationship. Here are some ways to do that:
- Be honest and open. Honest and open communication is one of the quickest ways to build trust…and dishonesty is perhaps one of the fastest ways to lose it. Always tell the truth and develop a reputation for honesty.
- Admit it when you’re wrong. Everyone makes mistakes, and you’re sure to lose trust if you try to cover up those mistakes. Admit your fault and make amends.
- Communicate openly. Be clear in what you’re trying to deliver, and also, listen. There are two sides to a conversation, and both need to be actively and consciously applied. If you don’t understand, ask questions.
- Honor your commitment. If you promise to do something, stick to that agreement. Don’t make promises you can’t keep.
- Do what’s right. There are times when you may be tempted to do something that’s not right. But even if no one is watching, do the right thing. Stand up for what’s right as well. Don’t sacrifice your values. Do what you believe.
- Be vulnerable. Don’t be afraid to let someone know that you are upset or worried. It’s okay to have and show feelings.
- Help others. Go that extra mile to let others know you care. Do something for others. See if there are ways you can help, even if you do it behind the scenes.
- Create and value long-term relationships. Trust is a long-term commitment to someone and something you build on year after year. Think about your longest relationships, and then think about who you would call in an emergency. The two are likely the same.
Why Should I Trust a Home Watch Service like Golden Rule Home Watch?
Allowing someone to care for your home while you’re away is also a trust relationship, but one we can assure you, is backed by experience. You may know your neighbors, but can you actually trust them to watch over your home like you do? They’re busy with their own lives, or perhaps you haven’t built long-term relationships with them. Many times nowadays, people don’t even know their neighbors.
At Golden Rule Home Watch & Concierge, we built our business based on trust. We are members of the National Home Watch Association, and we’re licensed, bonded and insured to protect our clients. That’s even why we picked our business name, based on the Golden Rule of “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” It’s the principle of treating others as you would want to be treated.
We are a professional business and our owner/principal Dan Lender comes from a lengthy security background himself. He knows from experience and training how to protect your home when you’re not there. Learn more about our Home Watch and Car Watch services.
Your home in Northern Virginia is a big investment and deserves to be watched over when you’re traveling for vacation, business or any extended away-from-home stay. Contact us here at Golden Rule Home Watch for a free initial consultation, and ask your questions. You’ll find you can trust us to watch your home for you.