Secret to Success

This is just me talking here, but you want to know the secret to getting ahead? I mean, the real secret?

It has nothing to do with talent. Nothing to do with connections.

I'm not saying those things don't help, but here's what clinches it: Keeping your word. Doing what you say.

I know it sounds simplistic, but I'll tell you what, a lot of people don't keep their word.

Contractors who don't show up when they say they will.

Companies that don't honor guarantees when they swore they would.

Car salesmen who suddenly forget promises made when they insisted they would not.

I don't know about you, but I'd gladly pay more — maybe not a lot more — but more for someone who does what he says.

Sadly, few do or certainly a lot fewer than when my dad was alive. He used to say his word was his bond and a handshake his contract.

Simpler times, I suppose, but more honorable times, when we appreciated others' time.

So here's my own nickel and dime advice to any contractor — any worker — in any business:

You say you're coming at 2 p.m., come at 2 p.m.

You can't make it, phone to say you can't make it.

Give an estimate. Stick to the estimate.

It's called common courtesy. It's also called service. People remember you for it. And think twice about ever dealing with you if you lie about it.

Watch Neil Cavuto weekdays at 4 p.m. ET on "Your World with Cavuto" and send your comments to cavuto@foxnews.com