Trust, Again

Daniel Burka on The Pastry Box Project:

Design is all about relationships. […] Some of the best design work I’ve ever done was drinking coffee or beers with engineers, marketing people, and business development hustlers. […] I often hear designers moan because their incredible design work remains stuck in graphic files, collecting dust. […] Dear designer, this is your job. You must work to build trust, engage and involve other people on your team, and most of all you need to listen.

Emphases mine; feel free to replace designer with the profession of your choice. Communication is key. Not for its own sake, but as a vehicle to build trust, the most valuable asset in business – and life.