Have you stopped to consider the nature of trust. When you give it? When you withhold it? Who receives your trust? Who trusts you? For most of us it is a subconscious action. Think about the last time you stepped on a plane, my guess is that without a second thought you gave implicit trust that the pilot knew how to do their job.
If it can be that easy to give trust, why do I hear—time and time again from the leaders I work with—stories of mistrust (hidden agendas) and distrust (they blindsided me last time, so I won’t make that mistake again). At work, a lack of trust has a detrimental impact: silos form, information-sharing slows, decision making is affected, and performance suffers for the organization, team, and individual.
How can you build and maintain trust with colleagues?
WE first, not ME first
Seek out opportunities to get to know the people around you as people, not just at the transactional level of “can you do this for me?” Spend time informally, as well as formally, building a relationship with your team.
Remember: trust is built through the interpersonal interactions, not through email. Seek out opportunities to collaborate and focus on mutual success (WE first) rather than individual success (ME first).
Consistent communication
Asking questions, sharing information, and providing feedback are the hallmarks for a relationship built on trust. Consistent communication includes sharing the rationale behind business decisions, not getting sucked into gossip and speculation, and being candid when you can't share confidential information. Pay attention to how you communicate; avoid using "I" in spoken and written communication when possible and instead use "we." Think "team."
Generosity and abundance
In my experience, the most successful people are those who share their network and expertise. These people give more than they take and are focused on achieving their success by making others successful. Make introductions, share your wisdom, and build a reputation for being the go-to person.
For example, during my first managerial role meeting with my new team, I shared with them that my number 1 job was to ensure THEIR success. It had an immediate and positive impact on their level of trust not just with me, but across the team.
Align expectations
One of the most powerful things you can do to build trust is to align expectations and discuss how you will work together not just what results need to be delivered. Ensure the implicit is explicit and the rules of engagement are clear. It is then easier to build from this foundation of trust, and to course correct as needed—especially in times of stress and uncertainty when trust can be challenged.
I recommend taking a relationship "pulse check" at regular intervals. Here are three simple questions that have a powerful impact on building trust if you listen to the replies and follow through with the necessary action:
- What is working well?
- What is not working well?
- What is one thing I can do to help ensure your / our success?
Final thought
As you seek to build trust—to help others to trust you—have you considered the alternative? That building trust isn't about the other person. That building trust starts with you. Are you willing to give trust?
