How do I build trust?

In teams, positions of leadership, and personal relationships, trust is the glue that holds it all together. Here are three critical first steps:

• Be proactive – Conventional thinking believes that you shouldn’t trust people until they prove themselves trustworthy. Leadership takes the initiative and sets the example of trust for the health of the organization. Others will follow your lead of trust.
• Be vulnerable – Conventional thinking has it that we should use power and force to resolve differences or get our way. This will not achieve organizational cooperation. As leaders we must make requests rather than demand or threaten. If the request doesn’t work, explain the consequences to the organization and you personally. Coming from a position of vulnerability builds trust and reduces resistance.²
• Be congruent – Match your words and thinking with your actions and behaviors. Internal and external congruence builds trust.

²”Trust: How to Build It and Keep It” by Hyler Bracey


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