Trust is a relationship between people. People have a predictable tendency to trust unless we are deceived, betrayed, or disappointed. Trust is fundamental to gaining the support of others. If your organization is to grow, you must establish and sustain trust, so your team members will stay engaged, be productive, and creative. Understanding the thoughts and feelings of others helps you gain information to achieve your desired outcome.
When there is mutual trust there is a higher probability that an outcome will be positive when information is timely and correct. The help and support of others will help build mutual trust. A strong foundation of trust can help ensure success.
If you are a doubter, trusting others may be a challenge. Do some people need to prove they are worthy of your trust before you will let them in? Your team members will withhold their trust until you show them you trust them. One way to begin earning trust is to trust others. Trust is a two-way street, and you should consider giving it before you expect to receive it.
A leader with strong communication skills will gain a higher level of trust and encourage loyalty. When you share information with others your trust meter measures your level of trust. If you are like many of us, you make choices based on how much you trust others. Concluding whom you trust and to what degree is a sustaining part of life. How much of yourself are you willing to give to achieve a desired outcome? When there is a trusting relationship, the probability is greater that you will be able to share knowledge together. Sharing your ideas in a trusting setting can help you identify potential unintended consequences, so you can avoid them. Trust helps us move forward. Applying the following skills creates a basis for trust and enables a leader to accept risks, identify and solve issues, and collaborate to achieve desired outcomes.
Help others understand the team’s purpose.
Use smart questions to encourage open communication.
Persuade rather than manipulate your team members.
Seek acceptance of your ideas.
Involve your team in your decision-making process.
Show your appreciation by saying “Thank you” for your team’s efforts.
Be aware of any disloyalty members reveal.
Maintain a calm perspective in the face of challenges.
Reflect confidence and trust rather than doubt or mistrust.
Pay attention to your body’s messages. Are they negative or positive?
Demonstrate behaviors that show you trust others.
Use your Interactive Leadership skills to establish and maintain trust and mend any damaged relationships.
As a leader you can inspire higher levels of performance and commitment to team and organizational success if you establish and sustain an atmosphere of trust.
Remember: It takes years to build, second to lose, and forever to repair.