Can I Trust you? A Vital Question in Business and Life!
- Luz Escoto
- Oct 10, 2023
- 5 min read
Mutual trust is a powerful force that cannot be underestimated. When trust exists among individuals, teams, or organizations, the exchange of ideas becomes effortless and without fear of judgment or misinterpretation. Trust creates a sense of ease where individuals feel comfortable speaking their minds, engaging in healthy debates, and disagreeing without fearing being left out to dry. Trust is the foundation of all relationships, and once established, it creates an environment that allows for taking risks and admitting mistakes.
I was inspired to write about this critical subject after reading “The Speed of Trust” by Stephen M.R. Covey, a must-read for leaders at all levels. His book emphasizes building trust as a valuable and profitable organizational asset. He argues that working within a “High Trust” environment demonstrates admirable qualities and results in tangible financial benefits.
Building a Culture Founded on Trust!
Establishing a culture of trust can be difficult, but it is certainly achievable. It requires dedication and ongoing effort from every level of the organization, but it is a worthwhile pursuit. According to Stephen M.R. Covey, investing in trust is crucial. When leaders cultivate a culture of trust, it positively impacts the team, making them feel secure, appreciated, and motivated. Without trust, it is impossible to inspire or motivate anyone.
Lack of Trust Hinders Progress!
Imagine a situation where you join a team project, but after a few days, you realize that some critical factors have been left out. As a new team member, speaking up without a trusting relationship with your peers can be intimidating. You may fear offending the team or ruffling feathers. So, you make the unfortunate decision to stay quiet. You possess valuable insights and ideas that have yet to be shared with the team. It's not that you lack concern, but rather, you're hesitant due to the uncertainty of their reaction. Regrettably, a lack of trust in both yourself and the team hinders the project's progress by preventing the sharing of essential information. This reluctance to participate from you and other team members is causing discomfort and additional mistrust and slowing the project's advancement.
Trust is fertile ground for Innovation!
Now, picture yourself as a new employee, and ever since you joined the company, you have been observing a culture of open communication and trust that prevails throughout the organization. You join a new team project, and as a valuable addition to the team, you fully embrace this opportunity. You understand that healthy disagreements and constructive corrections are vital to achieving success. With this mindset, you confidently shared critical information needed for the success of a new project. Your contribution was crucial to the team’s success, and the team appreciates your input. You take pride in being an active and effective team member. Your confidence in sharing your observations and insights demonstrates your commitment to the company’s success and the invaluable culture of trust, which ultimately speeds up progress!
Trust should be in the room in every interaction:
As Assistant Vice President, trust was essential in all my professional interactions. Whether coaching managers, discussing new goals and initiatives with my boss, or brainstorming with colleagues, trust acted as an invisible guide, leading to productive and fulfilling conversations and results.
There is a palpable sense of positivity and collaboration in an atmosphere of trust. Individuals are more open to innovating, even if it means risking rejection in favor of a superior solution. Colleagues rally around promising concepts, even from someone new in the team, rather than ostracizing those deemed weaker, not well-liked, or a threat, a dynamic often found in toxic cultures and less trusting environments, and this is not a pleasant environment to be a part of.
In the Absence of Trust...
Conversations become one-sided, incomplete, and forced when trust is not in the room. This leads to inefficient problem-solving and delayed resolutions. Trust is crucial for effective coaching and motivation. Employees are more receptive to guidance from a manager they trust. Without trust, coaching and inspiration may not be effective.
At some point in our careers, we've all encountered situations where we feel judged by people we don't trust and fear negative consequences, making it challenging to be vulnerable and open up.
Fragile - Handled with Care!
Trust is the foundation of all relationships, whether personal or professional. Once established, it requires continuous effort to maintain. Being responsible and fulfilling promises are critical elements in fostering trust. Any disloyalty, mismanagement, or mistreatment can severely damage the trust earned.
Trust is an intricate notion that requires delicate handling and attention. It cannot be imposed but earned through transparency, integrity, and dependability. Investing time and effort into cultivating trust in relationships will pay off and serve as a solid groundwork for future meaningful interactions.
It’s a great feeling!
Being a part of an organization and spending time with trustworthy people is a fantastic feeling that should be safeguarded. Work is enjoyable and meaningful when you feel trusted and can trust others. Businesses that foster a culture of trust within their organization establish a long-lasting competitive advantage that attracts and retains talented employees and encourages customer loyalty.
May you find joy and fulfillment working alongside trustworthy colleagues!
Fun Activities:
1) Make sure to consider the needs of both introverts and extroverts when planning team events, and allow introverts time to prepare for participation.
2) Create fun activities like potlucks, games, and Q&A sessions about culture, ethnic roots, and childhood memories to encourage bonding.
3) Provide the option for players to opt in or out of physically demanding game activities to alleviate anxiety and increase enjoyment. Assign them a different role, such as scorekeeper or cheerleader, so they can still participate in the activity.
4) Organize a contest where participants can wear fun and goofy costumes or have a pajama day.
5) Take your team for lunch or dinner and encourage casual conversations to foster better relationships.
6) Laugh together! One way to strengthen relationships is through shared laughter, which can be a powerful bonding agent.
7) Participate as a team in community events and charitable activities.
Keeping your Word:
1) Keep your promises and explain any changes to avoid miscommunication.
2) Celebrate small and big wins!
3) Give Credit where credit is due! It's important to acknowledge the ideas and contributions of your team. NEVER TAKE CREDIT FOR THEIR IDEAS!
4) Ensure Fairness and equity. Team members see everything, and it's the right thing to do!
5) Coach with kindness and truthfulness. People are more willing to listen and trust when you show empathy and understanding.
6) Providing timely and transparent information is crucial. It can be discouraging for team members when company changes occur without proper communication.
7) Be vulnerable and humble. You don't know everything, and you need the support of your team to achieve goals!
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