Do Your Students Believe You're a Good Teacher? How to Build and Maintain Personal Credibility in the Classroom

Before we go any further - let me clarify: if you’ve chosen to be a teacher, you’re not just good, you’re an absolute superstar.

And yet, we often ask ourselves: “Am I a good teacher?” 

A more telling question might be, “Do my students believe I’m a good teacher?” This belief is not just about your teaching techniques or your knowledge of the curriculum—it's about credibility.

Teacher credibility is the students' belief that you are believable, convincing, and capable of helping them succeed. Research tells us that when students view you as credible, they are more engaged, motivated, and likely to succeed in your class. 

On the flip side, if students perceive a lack of credibility, they tend to "turn off," which can contribute to diminished engagement and learning.

If you’re anything like me, when you read this your first thought might be “Oh no, I can never make a mistake again!”

Not. The. Case.

In fact, credibility is intricately woven with authenticity. You don’t lose credibility in the classroom through making a mistake (humanising this is an absolute asset for your students) and owning it! Where we lose credibility is when we make a mistake, feel embarrassed, and subsequently justify the mistake, or blame something/someone else for the mistake.

Our students are authenticity fiends and they will sniff this out from a mile away.

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Maintaining our personal credibility is not about being perfect, it’s about being real, showing empathy, being consistent and communicating clearly. 

Research by Finn et al. (2009) found that students who perceive their teachers as caring, understanding, authentic and responsive are more likely to experience greater motivation and enhanced learning. 

In contrast, your impact as an educator could be compromised if students don’t believe in your desire, ability and care for their learning. 

Which begs the question: How?

Building and Nurturing Credibility in Your Classroom

So, how can you build, nurture, and maintain that crucial sense of credibility with your students? Here are four simple steps that can make a big difference:

1. Show Genuine Care and Empathy

   Your students need to know that you care about them—not just as learners, but as individuals. A small gesture, like remembering their interests or checking in when they seem off, goes a long way. When students feel understood and valued, they are more likely to see you as a credible source of guidance and knowledge.

2. Be Authentic
   Authenticity is key to building trust and credibility. Be yourself—let your personality, values, and teaching style shine through. When students see that you’re genuine and true to who you are, they are more likely to connect with you and believe in what you’re teaching. Authenticity fosters a classroom environment where students feel safe to be themselves as well (this includes making mistakes!)

3. Be Consistent and Reliable
   Consistency builds trust. When you consistently apply classroom rules, provide feedback, and follow through on your commitments, students learn that they can depend on you. This reliability strengthens their belief in your credibility.

4. Communicate Clearly and Confidently

   Your ability to convey information clearly and confidently is crucial. Use language that is accessible but not condescending, and don’t be afraid to admit when you don’t know something—honesty can enhance credibility. Your communication style should make students feel informed and respected, fostering a classroom environment built on mutual trust.

The journey to building and maintaining credibility in the classroom isn’t about striving for perfection—it's about embracing who you are and bringing your true self into your teaching. 

Your students don’t need a flawless teacher; they need one who is real, who cares, and who is willing to grow alongside them. By showing up authentically, demonstrating empathy, and being consistent and clear in your communication, you create a space where both you and your students can thrive. 

Trust in the value of your unique teaching style, and know that being yourself is not just enough—it’s exactly what your students need.