Investing Amid Fear and Uncertainty

Whew, what a week, what a time. Because of all the craziness that's going on, I started the show this week by trying to help you guys get through this turbulent period. Hopefully it does some good, because based on the emails we've been receiving, I know many of you are freaking out. Keep calm and carry on!

The call this week comes from Tara in Pennsylvania who feels she's in good shape for retirement but is concerned by what's going on in the markets. A timely discussion indeed!

Trust is the glue that holds an organization together. It turns deflection into transparency, suspicion into empowerment, and conflict into creativity. With it, a tiny company like John Deere grew into a worldwide leader. Without it, a giant corporation like Enron toppled.

In The 10 Laws of Trust Expanded Edition, JetBlue Chairman Joel Peterson explores how a culture of trust gives companies an edge.

How does it feel to work for a firm where leaders and colleagues trust one another? Freed from micromanagement and rivalry, every employee contributes his or her best. Risk-taking and innovation become the norm. And, as Peterson notes, “When a company has a reputation for fair dealing, its costs drop: Trust cuts the time spent second-guessing and lawyering.”

With compelling examples, Peterson details how to establish and maintain a culture of trust.

Have a money question? Email me here.

"Jill on Money" theme music is by Joel Goodman, www.joelgoodman.com.