Hey product folks!
Today we are wrapping up our conversation about untrustworthiness. In previous newsletters we explored its manifestations, discussed strategies to overcome it, and my personal story of battling it.

So how do we build this elusive trust? It starts with radical transparency, embracing vulnerability, and fostering open communication. But let's face it, that's easier said than done.
That's why I'm excited to share three game-changing books that can helped me to learn the art of building trust:
"Thanks for the Feedback" by Douglas Stone and Sheila Heen
Remember Hannah from BobCo? Her story highlighted how crucial feedback is in building trust. This book teaches:
- Overcoming defensive reactions to feedback
- Engaging constructively with criticism
- Separating feedback content from emotional reactions
These skills are essential for creating the open, honest environment we've been discussing.
"The Five Dysfunctions of a Team" by Patrick Lencioni
We've talked about how untrustworthiness can turn your team into a Bermuda Triangle of information. Lencioni's book directly addresses this, offering:
- Strategies for building trust as a foundation for team success
- Methods to encourage healthy conflict and commitment
- Techniques for fostering accountability and focus on results
These align perfectly with our discussions on transparent post-mortems and embracing failure as a learning opportunity.
"Radical Candor" by Kim Scott
Our journey has shown us that honesty isn't just the best policy—it's the winning move. Scott's book provides a framework for this, including:
- Balancing care for team members with direct challenges
- Techniques for giving and receiving feedback effectively
- Strategies for creating a culture of open communication
Do you have a book to add to the list? Share your recommendation in the comments!
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