In the early stages of transitioning to a consultant, credibility is more than a buzzword, it’s the cornerstone of trust, effective collaboration, and influencing outcomes across patient care. It is what allows colleagues, teams, patients and their families to trust your judgment and to follow your lead. In previous articles, we explored the three pillars of building credibility early: clarity, consistency, and connection. These principles help you establish a strong foundation as you transition into a consultant role.

As you learnt in our last instalment, credibility isn’t about being flawless. In fact, striving for perfection can backfire. True credibility comes from being authentic, accountable, and growth oriented. It’s about showing that you can own your decisions, learn from mistakes, and maintain integrity under pressure.

While building credibility takes time and effort, it can be undermined surprisingly quickly. Certain behaviours, mindsets, and actions, although often unintentional, can erode trust and can damage your reputation. With awareness and proactive strategies, you can avoid these pitfalls.


Common pitfalls that can undermine credibility

  1. Overpromising and underdelivering
    In an effort to impress, some consultants commit to unrealistic timelines or outcomes. When expectations aren’t met, trust can suffer. Instead, set clear, achievable goals and communicate openly about limitations.

  2. Avoiding accountability
    Mistakes can happen! However, what matters is how you respond. Deflecting blame or making excuses signals a lack of integrity. Owning your errors and outlining corrective steps demonstrates professionalism and resilience.

  3. Inconsistency in communication or behaviour
    Mixed messages or unpredictable actions can create confusion and doubt within your team; with those you supervise and especially in overwhelmed patients and their families. Consistency, whether in tone, decision-making, or follow-through, reinforces reliability.

  4. Neglecting relationships
    Technical expertise alone won’t sustain credibility. Failing to invest in relationships with your team and other colleagues can make you appear detached or transactional. Connection builds trust.

  5. Resistance to feedback
    Consultants who dismiss feedback risk being seen as rigid or arrogant. Embrace feedback in all forms as an opportunity for growth. This approach helps break down barriers within your team, models behaviour for those you supervise and signals humility and a commitment to improvement.

Having avoided the pitfalls that can undermine credibility you can also implement additional strategies that further safeguard your credibility

  • Be transparent: Share progress honestly, even when things aren’t going as planned.

  • Communicate clearly: Avoid jargon and ensure your message is understood by all. Don’t assume others such as junior doctors and patients understand what you are saying.

  • Show a growth mindset: Treat challenges as learning opportunities and model adaptability for those around you.

Credibility is an ongoing practice, not a one-time achievement. By being intentional about your behaviours and mindset, you can strengthen trust and position yourself as a respected consultant who inspires confidence.

Now as you review how you are tracking on the credibility pillars reflect on whether you are at risk of any of the pitfalls and note down a few small actions you can initiate to safeguard your credibility.

If you would like further support as you build your credibility as a junior consultant or as you prepare to transition to a consultant role, please remember AMA Victoria offers a wide range of coaching services and supports many members at transition points throughout their careers especially during the transition to consultant.

To find out more, visit Professional Development and Careers or book a career call to speak with a member of our team.