The Power of Small Business in Local Economies
Building Success on Trust
I'm of the opinion that behind every transaction and partnership lies an often overlooked but essential element: trust. As small business owners, we step into partnerships with a promise. We say, "I can do this," and that declaration becomes the cornerstone of what we offer to our employees and communities. But promises alone are not enough; trust must be earned through stalwart honesty consistent action.
Honesty, in its simplest form, is the foundation of every successful business relationship. Without it, even the most promising ventures falter. Honesty is not merely about telling the truth. It encompasses a deeper responsibility: understanding that our clients have their own expectations and visions, which may not always align perfectly with our own methods or the realities we encounter along the way. This disparity isn’t a barrier but an opportunity for professional growth and project success.
That said, we should not hold ourselves or our team to an impossible standard. As human beings, we are inherently imperfect; such is the nature and wonder of our species. But it is important to remember that the outcome of our mistakes is largely dependent on how we choose to respond when we err. At every stage of the process, transparency is paramount. Sharing our thoughts, ideas, and reasoning, even when they deviate from the client’s original vision, demonstrates respect and builds rapport. It’s a commitment to navigating challenges collaboratively rather than unilaterally. And when questions arise—as they inevitably will—embracing them with openness and understanding further cements this trust. After all, every person brings their own unique perspective, shaped by their experiences and aspirations.
If you approach situations as a lifelong learner, you usually walk away with something interesting to think about. This is not something I experience solely as a business owner, as every team I’ve ever worked with – at every level of my career – brought with them unique observations about the industry, the community, and most importantly, the business. Listening thoughtfully has allowed me to approach projects with an open mind and position myself for success by never discounting feedback or advice – especially when it’s something I don’t want to hear, but need to. In many ways, as professionals, we’re just evolved monkeys trying to share the same typewriter. Such is the reality of collaboration - it’s imperfect, messy, and inherently human, but it’s also what keeps things interesting.
Small businesses have a unique power to transform local economies, and that power is amplified when trust is at the heart of every interaction. By embracing honesty, respecting diverse perspectives, and maintaining open lines of communication, we not only build stronger businesses but also more resilient communities. Because in the end, trust isn’t just good business—it’s the foundation of progress.
Chrystyn Kanter is the COO of Break Blue Strategies.