Building Trust: Mike Rubin, MD, PhD, CFA on the Core of Human Connection

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Mike Rubin, MD, PhD, CFA

LinkedIn Author

ROP (Return on Potential) is my favorite acronym although I’m an MD, PhD, MBA, CFA & a bunch of other acronyms people think matters. 4x’ing ROP @ Harvard, MIT, & Stanford & Founder/CEO of a multibillion dollar VC firm.

In a recent LinkedIn post, Mike Rubin, MD, PhD, CFA discusses the fundamental principles that underpin effective human connection, emphasizing timeless truths over superficial tactics. He argues that genuine relationships are built on a foundation of mutual understanding and empathy, a message that resonates deeply in both personal and professional spheres.

Rubin highlights that while various strategies can be employed in interactions, the ultimate success hinges on a few core elements. He states:

“The best way to connect with people is to:
✅ See them eye to eye
✅ Speak their language
✅ Imbue care and compassion”

This emphasis on seeing from another’s perspective, communicating in a way that resonates, and approaching interactions with genuine concern forms the bedrock of his argument. According to Rubin, these are not mere suggestions but essential components for fostering meaningful bonds.

The Enduring Power of Know, Like, and Trust

Delving deeper into the mechanics of connection, Mike Rubin, MD, PhD, CFA posits that regardless of the sophistication of methods used, the underlying drivers of collaboration remain consistent. He points out that both individuals and even animals gravitate towards relationships characterized by familiarity, affinity, and reliability.

Rubin elaborates on this point:

“In the end analysis

People (and dogs)

Work with other people they:

🙌 Know
🙌 Like
🙌 Trust”

As Rubin suggests, this triad of ‘Know, Like, Trust’ is paramount. It implies that superficial engagement or transactional approaches, while potentially offering short-term gains, cannot substitute for the deep-seated confidence that develops over time through consistent positive interactions. This principle, he implies, is universally applicable, transcending various industries and contexts.

Achieving Collective Success Through Genuine Connection

The culmination of Rubin’s insights centers on the potential unlocked when these core principles are embraced. He asserts that by prioritizing genuine connection, individuals and teams can achieve significantly more than they might through isolated efforts or purely strategic maneuvers.

He concludes with an inspiring message:

“And when we remember that

There is no limit to what we can achieve together 🏆”

In Mike Rubin, MD, PhD, CFA’s view, fostering an environment where people feel seen, understood, and trusted is not just a ‘nice-to-have’ but a strategic imperative. This approach, he argues, cultivates loyalty, enhances collaboration, and ultimately drives greater collective achievement. His post serves as a timely reminder for business leaders and professionals alike to focus on the human element in all their endeavors.

📝 About This Content

This article is based on insights shared by Mike Rubin, MD, PhD, CFA on LinkedIn.

📅 Originally posted on November 19, 2025 | View original post on LinkedIn →