Trust in the Workplace

Why is trust so important, and what are some simple things we can do to foster trust?

In working with diverse teams and managers over the years, most will agree that one of the most important things in a satisfying and engaging workplace is for mutual trust to exist between managers and their team members, and between the team as a whole.

In discussing how to build trust, Franklin Covey reports that research by the Harvard Business Review shows that people in high-trust organisations experience 50% higher productivity, 76% greater engagement, and more than double the energy at work than those in low-trust organisations.

6 key things we can do to foster trust

1. Display integrity: Do what we say we are going to do, including living out what we say we value.
2. Take accountability: be responsible for outcomes and avoid blame (see if you can relate to the YouTube clip below!)
3. Communicate all information that you are able to and provide whatever information your team needs to be successful, and for them to understand the context
4. Be clear about everyone’s work goals, roles and expectations of performance (including your own)
5. Listen to, invite and take feedback on board. Understand that you will be stronger for appreciating others inputs, strengths and viewpoints.
6. Empower people, by setting the outcome you want them to achieve and then trust them to deliver, ensuring they have the support and tools they need..

You may appreciate this short YouTube video by Dr. Brene Brown on Blame… I know I certainly did!

I would love to hear what you think, by leaving a comment below.

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