“So how do you build rapport with groups you have to work with on a regular basis?”

He stared at me for a few seconds, then turned his gaze to the window. “It’s all about credibility. Today I’ll tell you the sky is blue. Tomorrow I’ll tell you the sky is blue. The next day I’ll tell you the sky is blue. Then you trust me. I’ve established credibility with you.”

I stared back at him. Thankfully the words only played in my head, and not out of my mouth. “No, you’ve either stated the obvious, or more likely, if you’re in San Francisco, are oblivious to the weather.”