Individual Credibility Definition

Over 50 years ago, the first studies examining the concept of credibility were tackled (Belonax, Newell, & Plank, 2007). Individual credibility was one of the two categories of credibility that researchers primarily focused on in these studies. Your reputation for being trustworthy is personal credibility (Cardon, 2013). The formula for credibility is competence, caring, and character.
The first aspect of credibility is competence. According to Cardon (2013), "Competence refers to the knowledge and skills needed to accomplish business tasks, approach business problems, and get a job done" (p. 6). There are several ways to develop competence. Developing competence can be done through observation and study. Practice and real-world experiences

are the most vital way to build competence. Others perceive your competence and your credibility through the way you communicate your plan of action and the results of those actions.
The second aspect of credibility is caring. Clients, colleagues, and customers will trust if they know you care about them (Cardon, 2013). Caring suggest understanding the interests of other, demonstrating accountability, and establishing a sense of community.
The third aspect of credibility is character. Per Cardon (2013), " Character refers to a reputation
for staying true to commitments made to stakeholders and adhering to high moral and ethical values" (p. 8). In business relationships, character has always been essential. When establishing trust an individual's character is critical.
Competence, caring, and character is the three aspects of the formula for credibility. Establishing credibility with colleagues, clients, and customers is crucial for success in the business world.

References
Belonax, J. J., Newell, S. J., & Plank, R. E. (2007). The role of purchase importance on buyer perceptions of trust and expertise components of supplier and salesperson credibility in business-to-business relationships. Journal Of Personal Selling & Sales Management, 27(3), 247-258.

Cardon, P. (2013). Business communication:
Developing leaders for a networked world. New
York: McGraw-Hill/Irwin.