Without a customer, you don't have a business - all you have is a hobby.
New technologies make it possible for even the mass marketer to assume the role of a small proprietor, doing business again wit individuals, one at a time.
Being trustworthy requires: Doing the right thing. And doing things right.
Empathy is the ultimate form of customer insight.
Customer will create most value for you at point he thinks you're creating most value for him.