Most people assume that trust “just happens” in relationships. Like some sort of relational osmosis, people figure that trust just naturally develops over the course of time, and the longer you’re in relationship with someone, the greater the likelihood you’ll build a strong bond of trust.

Well, if you believe that, I’m sorry to burst your bubble. Trust doesn’t work that way.

Trust is based on perceptions, and those perceptions are formed by the behaviors you use. If you use trustworthy behaviors, you’ll be trusted. If you use behaviors that erode trust, people won’t trust you. It comes down to those simple and routine behaviors you use every day at work.

If you need help building trust at work, here are 25 simple and specific ways you can start:

1. Follow-through on your commitments.
2. Take a genuine interest in your colleagues.
3. Mentor someone.
4. Strive to be the best at what you do.
5. Tell the truth.
6. Don’t gossip.
7. Keep confidences.
8. Listen well.
9. Incorporate the ideas of others.
10. Praise people for a job well done.
11. Be responsive to requests.
12. Under-promise and over-deliver.
13. Walk your talk.
14. Stand up for what is right.
15. Admit your mistakes.
16. Apologize when necessary.
17. Constantly build your expertise.
18. Build rapport with others.
19. Be inclusive and appreciate diversity.
20. Be on time for meetings and appointments.
21. Demonstrate strong organizational skills.
22. Say please and thank you.
23. Go out of your way to help others.
24. Be receptive to feedback.
25. Be friendly.

Of course those are just the tip of the iceberg. What other key behaviors would you recommend to build trust? Please share your feedback by leaving a comment.