Recently I found out found out about a member of the VA community who responded to a RFP (request for proposal) and landed the project about 6 weeks ago. The client needed the project done in 2 weeks. The project still isn't completed. This true life scenario really bothers me. Why on earth would you respond to a RFP if you can't fulfill your commitment? Plus the VA industry is new and not yet mainstream, so what kind of taste did this leave in the mouth of the client about the industry?

One of my clients, Bea Fields wrote a terrific article about the subject of trustworthiness. I encourage you to read it and ask yourselves the following questions.

Ten Questions to Test Your Trustworthiness
by Bea Fields

In order to succeed in business and in life, it is imperative that you be worthy of trust. Take this quick quiz to challenge your ability to be trusted. You should be able to answer "Yes" to each of the questions.

1. Are you punctual?

Points off for being late and not apologizing.

2. Are you a team-player?

Points off for competing with team members and criticizing the work of others.

3. Are you open to new ideas and forward in your thinking?

Points off for quickly rejecting the ideas of others.

4. Do you do what you say you will?

Points off for empty promises and not fulfilling a commitment.

5. Are you willing to jump in and help when others are in a jam?

Points off for not letting other people off the hook when they are in a jam or in crisis.

6. Are you responsible for your work load?

Points off for pushing your work onto others.

7. Do you maintain a positive attitude, even when time is scarce?

Points off for saying "I'm too busy, that is someone else's job, or I don't want to do that."

8. Are you responsible for any and all mistakes you make?

Points off for blaming and finger-pointing.

9. Do you tell the story exactly as it is?

Points off for exaggeration and leaving out key information.

10. Are you devoted to continuing education and competency?

Points off for not being willing to find the answer when asked a challenging question.

Bea Fields is an Executive Coach and the President of Five Star Leader Coaching and Training. She is a Consultant, Trainer, Public Speaker and author of the Five Star Leader e-course. Along with Mitch Meyerson, Founder of Guerrilla Marketing Coach, she is the co-leader of the Guerrilla Marketing Coach Certification program. She is the Visionary for the Teleclass Leaders Learning Program. For more information on how you can become a teleclass leader for fun and profit, visit TeleclassLeader.com today.