Being dependable is a commitment to following through on your promises. It is getting done what you said you would get done. While it takes time to build a reputation of being dependable it is an instrumental component of you being able to develop trust with others, which in turn is at the foundation of all good relationships.
Becoming Dependable
- Develop a habit of coming to the meetings 1-2 minutes earlier. Print out emails or other material you need to read and take it with you so you feel you are not ‘wasting’ your time just waiting.
- Check your calendar routinely to see what meetings or other deliverables you have scheduled.
- Improve your overall time management skills
- If you do fall behind, or are late for a meeting, contact the person and tell him/her you’re behind schedule and do the best you can to finish what you promised at the earliest.
Being dependable is basically very simple and can be summed up in one sentence:
"Say what you're going to do and then do it."