One of the memorable parts of the VP debates this past week was Tim Walz waffling around some aspect of his history.

The episode is an example of how trust can erode when leaders are not genuine.

Leaders need trust to lead. Leaders need to be genuine to earn trust. Lack of trust undermines leadership and affects your ability to grow the business.

Work to earn that trust every day.

Be dependable. Do what you say you will do. Execute. Demonstrate high ethics in things big and small. Don’t be afraid to be who you are.

If and when you screw up, admit it (apologize if you need to) and move on. We all make mistakes.

Even monkeys fall from trees.

And remember: Leaders require practical skills to be effective, but the foundation is trust.