Most Trusted Man in America

With the passing of Walter Cronkite I got to thinking about what it means to be “the most trusted man in America”. How is it possible that one man delivering the news can capture the attention of everyone in America and much of the world?

Before Walter Cronkite the news was sort of homogenized. Bundled up into little easily-absorbed bites. All the news stations were doing the same thing. Walter Cronkite changed all that for CBS. He delivered the news with vigor, compassion and a sense of purpose. He knew the American people could deal more effectively with the actual facts rather than some watered down variations. And he was able to connect with the millions of viewers one soul at a time.

Walter Cronkite’s success came down to 4 things: credibility, sincerity, loyalty and approachability. His quest for the facts, his caring about getting the job done right, his devotion to family and America, and his clear opinions and delivery is what made him the most trusted man in America.

As business people, if we follow Water Cronkite’s example our customers will always want to do business with us. If we know the facts, present clear ideas, prove our case and show them we care, we have done our job and customers and prospects will appreciate it. They might not always agree with our counsel but they know they can trust us.

George Clooney said he hates America without Walter Cronkite. We all know he does not mean that but the world has lost one of its best parts. We should all strive to carry a little Walter in everything we do and slowly we will make our world a better place.

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