I reflect on the significance of trust in Academic Development (AD) and outline strategies for cultivating it with other academics. Within many higher education institutions, the inherent uncertainty of the AD role necessitates intentional trust-building efforts. In this regard, conversations have been encouraged as trust-building tools. However, important questions remain about how developers can gain trust by being research-active, building a knowledge base, and nurturing legitimacy. In addressing these questions, I draw upon insights from my study participants, who provided valuable perspectives on the essential nature of trust-building in AD. Their insights inform developers in all kinds of AD models on cultivating trust beyond AD.