One needs to act with honesty and fairness in order to build trust and earn the respect of others. Whether you're just a team member contributing to a project, or a team lead trying to balance competing priorities, or even simply making decisions in your daily life, fairness in your actions strengthens relationships and reinforces your credibility. People value those who are upfront and just, knowing that they will act in the best interest of all parties, not just for personal gain.
For instance, if you're faced with a tough decision that might affect the workload or opportunities of others, transparency and fairness are critical. Explaining your decision-making process and showing empathy towards those affected will demonstrate integrity and will go a long way in assuring everyone that their concerns are being considered. Conversely, acting dishonestly or playing favorites can damage both new and established relationships and lead to distrust, diminishing your influence over time.
Upholding these values creates an environment where people feel valued and treated justly, ultimately strengthening your reputation and influence.