Communicate early and often. We hear this a lot in my world and we try to practice it as much as we can. Coming from brands and/or organizations, there are sometimes limitations on exactly what those communications can be. On a level, though, proactive (relatively speaking) and frequent communication makes people feel comfortable.

Same can and should be applied to person to person communications. People start to make assumptions when they have little or no information, especially in the wake of impending “news.” These assumptions can be extremely damaging, to both personal, emotional status and relationships. These assumptions can make people feel like you’re playing games with them.

Squash that by communicating. Face to face. As openly and honestly as you can. Might not be easy and might not be a message someone wants to hear, but it builds trust. Makes people feel comfortable.