If you want to be successful – one personality trait trumps all the others.

When we think of really successful people, we usually think of personality traits like ambition, drive or talent...

Those are all good – but according to Heidi Grant Halvorson, author of “Succeed,” the trait that trumps all the others is trustworthiness. it’s basically the first rung of the ladder we will climb towards success. If your boss doesn’t trust you, you won’t get key assignments. If your employees don’t trust you, you won’t get their best effort.

Dr. Halvorson explains that it’s actually the perception that you’re trustworthy that matters the most. You can be honest, fair and reliable all day long – but if nobody else sees you that way, it won’t help you. In order to gain the trust of those around you, you’ll have to interact with them. It’s important to admit some mistakes, be prompt and predictable, avoid fidgeting and maintain eye contact. The next two rungs are willpower and self-control – and you’re on your way up.