So, what does every team need more of each day?In a word. Trust. Regardless of how healthy or unhealthy your team is, trust is that secret element that not only must be earned but must be continually created and fostered. Often I hear leaders say...
- Why do they keep making the same mistakes?
- I am not sure what it is, I just don't trust them.
- I am confused they say one thing but do another.
- I am not sure I trust them with the company card.
- They don't seem to care about the other departments.
Lots of concerns which signal trust has either been broken or needs to be built. Because these statements are often incredibly vague, they typically aren't very helpful in creating change and growth. Therefore, to help you and your leaders have better conversations around trust, here are 5 keys to help you get specific about what behavior needs to look like moving forward.
5 Keys to Build Greater Trust
- Compassion: Trust they understand and are FOR you.
We know empathy is powerful, as anytime you feel heard and valued you walk away feeling better about life. Often that's all you needed to find a solution to a problem or work towards change. So be sure to find ways to encourage each other and it'll make all the difference.
Compassion Tip: Make less assumptions & ask more questions.
- Capable: Trust they're competent to do what's needed.
Here we are talking about their skills and specially what they were hired to do, which usually isn't an issue. The key is to seek growth opportunities and areas where they can train and take their abilities to the next level.
Capable Tip: Reward great work. Don't let it go unnoticed.
- Character: Trust someone is who you need them to be.
Of course, you want to hire and keep employees of great integrity, but as you look at specific positions, be sure to emphasis certain character traits which are key to excelling and executing that position.
Character Tip: Display great character as much as you talk about it.
- Consistency: Trust what you’ve seen them do before.
We love places like McDonalds and Starbucks because we know exactly what we are going to get. No matter if you are in Seattle or New York your Big Mac and Mocha Latte are going to taste the same. Make it your goal to create that same consistency for your team and clients.
Consistency Tip: Whatever you do, create a great track record.
- Connection: Trust they are available when you need them.
In the world of hybrid and at home offices, connection times can be hard to arrange. Do your best to be present when you are available and be assessable when you need to be. It's these little things that go a long way!
Connection Tip: Seek to have both formal and informal times of connection and coaching.