Candid Comment - Credibility: Why it matters in 2026

Have you noticed a spike in AI-generated content? How about seeing content shaped by groups from the far left and right? In a world saturated with information, opinions, and constant chatter, we are seeing the rise of the angry far left and right positioning views that are not only strong but also may be inaccurate. Even in the world of news and entertainment and on social media, we are inundated with messages that are not exactly correct. Credibility seems to be missing in a lot of what we see online and in our other content streaming platforms.

Recently, I had occasion to point out to a good friend of mine. That a lot of the videos they were seeing, showing Canada's prime minister and Elon Musk offering money or promoting programs and platforms for gaining financial wealth, were nothing more than bunco schemes. These are intended to essentially get people to spend money. For those buying into this in the hope of getting wealthy fast, the result is they find out the hard way that more often than not, the money invested has no return or little to no return. I have seen some as well, including one from Snoop Dogg. Are you kidding me!

Even in the world of online content for entertainment and information, fake content is being created. I have seen videos where news stories are not verifiable. I have seen content created where it is clearly all AI, down to the host or narrator. Heck, I even saw a video at my work recently produced by our HR that was done with AI. It was one of the worst presentations I have ever seen in my many years working. Why? Because we have become so wired, so lazy, and so polarized, this has allowed credibility and authenticity to be sacrificed. And we need to, as a whole society, step back and demand better from content creators and organizations putting out this junk. We need credible, authentic, and verifiable information to be the goal of any created content. Even blog posts like this one.

In a world saturated with information, opinions, and constant chatter, we must ask this question. When it comes to good content, what truly stands out? It's not always the loudest voice, the flashiest presentation, or the most trending hashtag. Often, it's the quiet, persistent power of credibility coupled with valid and authentic content.

Credibility is more than just being believed; it's the quality of being trusted, respected, and seen as reliable and authoritative. It's the tool that allows you to command attention and instills confidence, not through force, coercion, or smoke and mirrors, but through earned respect.

Credibility matters: think about that for a moment, then read on.

In your personal life: Credibility builds strong relationships. Friends and family rely on your word, your support, and your consistent character. In your professional life: Credibility is the bedrock of leadership, career advancement, and successful collaborations. Clients trust you with their business, colleagues rely on your expertise, and employers value your integrity. In the digital age: When misinformation spreads like wildfire, credible sources become lighthouses in a fog. Whether you're an influencer, a journalist, or a business owner, your credibility determines your reach and impact.

Couple credibility with authentic and verifiable information, and you will be well received; without it, even the most brilliant ideas can fall flat, promises ring hollow, and intentions are met with skepticism.

For content creators, it's a death sentence for your content.

Credibility isn't granted: it's meticulously built, brick by brick, over time. Here are its fundamental pillars. Integrity & Honesty: This is the non-negotiable foundation. Speaking the truth, keeping your word, and acting ethically, even when no one is watching, is paramount. Consistency between your words and actions defines your integrity. Competence & Expertise: Do you know your stuff? Credibility comes from demonstrating skill, knowledge, and the ability to deliver results. This requires continuous learning, growth, and a commitment to excellence in your chosen field. Especially if you want to be a content creator. Consistency & Reliability: People trust what is predictable in a positive way. Are you consistently showing up? Delivering on deadlines? Maintaining a steady quality? Reliability builds confidence and reduces anxiety in those who depend on you. Transparency & Openness: Being open about your processes, admitting mistakes, and sharing information (where appropriate) fosters trust. It shows you have nothing to hide and are willing to be accountable. Authenticity: In an age of curated personas, being your genuine self, with all your strengths and vulnerabilities, resonates deeply. People connect with realness, not perfection. It has been said that in media it takes 10 years to perfect your craft and another to make what you say and do on air sound and look like you.

If you want a good example of credibility, look no further than the Marine Corps of the United States. Sure, they are tough, aggressive, and at times quite brash. However, underneath beats the heart of a group of people who have been taught that credibility means doing the right things even when no one is watching. This involves all the things listed above, and it is driven home in every phase of a Marine's career, starting with basic training.

The Steep Price of Losing Credibility: It's high, really, really high. While building credibility is a slow climb, losing it can be a swift descent. A single act of dishonesty, a broken promise, or a lapse in judgment can shake the foundation you've worked so hard to establish. Once trust is eroded, it's incredibly difficult to rebuild, often requiring significant time, consistent effort, and genuine remorse. In some cases, there is no recovery. How you should build credibility: One step at a time.

Walk the Talk: Let your actions speak louder than your words. Always follow through on commitments. Master Your Craft: Continuously learn, improve, and stay updated in your area of expertise. Be a resource, not just a voice. Embrace Transparency: Be clear about your intentions, processes, and limitations. Don't shy away from difficult conversations. Own Your Errors: When you make a mistake, acknowledge it promptly, apologize sincerely, and take steps to rectify it. This demonstrates humility and accountability. Be a Consistent Contributor: Show up, be present, and offer value consistently over time. Listen Actively: Understanding others' perspectives and concerns builds rapport and shows you value their input.

What you do and say, especially when it comes to presenting a viewpoint, adds to or subtracts from your credibility: Ensure that what you are saying makes sense and what you say or do is authentic. If you used a resource like an article or AI, mention it. Lastly, make sure what you say and do can be backed up with facts. Doing so bolsters your credibility; anything less can and potentially will damage your credibility.

In a world where so many groups are out to get your attention, it's important to be credible. True influence stems from being truly trusted. Credibility is not a shortcut; it's a long-term investment in yourself, your relationships, and your impact. It's the tool that helps you prove your worth, earn respect, and allow you to lead and follow with authentic power.

Here is a simple self check. Ask yourself:

• Would people trust me with something important?
  
• Do I do what I say—even when it’s inconvenient?
• Am I the same person in private as in public?

Thanks for reading. The first building block for building your credibility is to do the research. Try searching for resources on how to build and maintain credibility.

I had a really great conversation with Mitchell Levy regarding credibility. To see it, head over to my channel Candid Conversations Zoomed In and Video Comments.

See you in the next post