"I'll get that done right away." "The check is in the mail." "Consider it done." These are all statements people have made to us expressing assurance that we need not be concerned about the issue at hand. Often, however, there is cause for our concern.
On one occasion I made a purchase and later learned that by following a certain procedure I could save over $200 on that purchase. I returned to the store and submitted the required paperwork for the savings and the secretary promised to have the bookkeeper call to confirm the transaction the next day. Two days went by with no call. I called the store again and was promised that one of the four office workers would call right back. There was no call. Finally, at the end of the day I called once more and spoke with the person who "had my paperwork in hand" and was processing the request. He said he would call back as soon as he finished. He didn't. At least the savings was finally approved some time later.
Experiences like that tend to diminish our faith and trust in people. The problem is that this scenario repeats itself daily. Few people demonstrate dependability. When someone does follow through and get the job done he or she becomes the sought after person. We ask for that person when we really need to get something done. That dependable person becomes a person we trust and seek out.
Our dependability enriches others. People have less stress and irritation in their lives when there is someone they know will not fail them. Our dependability demonstrates that we really care about a person's needs and will take whatever action is necessary to meet them. Our dependability places a value on the felt needs of those around us. When we are dependable we will be sought out not just to do various tasks but as a trusted, caring friend.
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