As communicators, we want to tell great stories about our organizations. Typically we think of skills like strong writing or crafting narratives, but we underrate the importance of building trust and getting buy-in. From being kicked out of a crime scene to being trusted with details of the most highly sensitive investigations, we explore how we shifted the perception of the role of the communicator from nuisance to necessity. This session will explore the importance of trust and buy-in as essential to being a great communicator and provide actionable tools and strategies that the Orange County, CA Sheriff’s Department used internally to turn the “no comment” tide into strong, trusting relationships. Attendees will walk away with understanding how to build trust quickly , speak up for your role in your organization, and utilize improved relationships to tell even better stories.