Building Trust in Uncertain Times: The Power of Reliability

By: JESUS V. SISON, PTRP
CRFV Deputy National Director

Reliability is a soft skill that requires firm conviction and determination.

Suppose we are to search for the root word of reliability that originated from a Scottish term. In that case, the definition expresses consistently good quality or performance of a person or a thing. As for a person, they can be trusted for they are dependable, well-founded, genuine, authentic, trustworthy, valid, committed, fail-safe, infallible, and constant. Cambridge Dictionary also defined reliability as "The quality of being able to be trusted or believed because of working or behaving well." The wisest king who ever lived asked a question above his discernment of who is reliable as he sought them. Myriads of people from all lands surrounded him; he must have found them loyal as they paid tributes or homage to him. But, still, he's looking for a person who is constantly dependable and trustworthy.

In our society, many men and women are available and willing to work, but only a few are reliable. Reliable people are those who consistently complete tasks on time with the same high quality of work. They show up on time and appointments. They prioritize the importance of tasks and ensure they are done on time, as they respect deadlines. They choose their commitments and know how to say no to other things they believe that they cannot deliver. They take charge in moments of crisis and daunting challenges. Furthermore, they accept delegation needing less supervision. This is possible because of their core values aimed at excellence and completion.

Reliable people are greatly valued and easily noticed. Reliability makes planning stress-free because deliverables are supplied on time. Excellent output and increased productivity are observed. Decisions to take risks are more accessible because of the profitable work these people execute and the accurate and evidence-based information they bring. But at times, reliable people are "hated". When someone is good at something, incompetence, and inefficiencies will be exposed, even if not on purpose, and comparisons might arise. Thus, it is advisable to understand, first and foremost, the dynamics at the workplace to work harmoniously with others without necessarily compromising one's values and reliability. Be discreet, and never brag about how good you are.
Who indeed are the reliable people during these volatile times? Reliable people are those who live by example and are considered worthy models. They become a foundation of what the organization should be. They are a special breed of people who are not greedy but uphold a high standard of creed. These reliable men and women know the secret to becoming one.

First and foremost, anchor their confidence in the Lord, who is faithful and covenant-keeping God. They never doubt the undying and uncompromising Word of the Almighty God. This is the certainty that one can rest and trust. Reliability and faithfulness are God's very nature that withstood the test of time and challenged every trial. As we live and work, know for sure that "the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed." "Therefore know that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments."

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