Look, trust whom?

The author examines the importance of trust for social economy organisations in their relationships with external stakeholders. Until now, trust has often been discussed in the context of client relations and employee management, but has rarely been researched in relation to external stakeholders. In a qualitative survey of experts from social economy organisations, the importance of trust was assessed and evaluated using content analysis. The results show the high level of competence and willingness of social economy organisations to build trusting relationships with cooperation partners. A range of measures serve to promote trust and relationships. These organisations are very successful in networks and in cooperation with other social economy organisations, donors, sponsors and volunteers. On the other hand, relationships with politicians, administrators and government funders appear to be difficult and less trusting. The topics of power and dependence are also discussed in connection with trust.