Can You Train to Trust?
Two different organizations approached me with a challenging request: they wanted to know if I could “train” their leaders to trust each other.
The importance of trust in teamwork is undeniable, but the path to achieving it is not as straightforward as conducting a training session.
Trust cannot be mandated, taught, or simply assigned. It must be earned, and the responsibility for building trust lies squarely on the shoulders of the leaders and individuals. Trustworthiness is demonstrated through ACTIONS, not just intentions. Even if a leader has the best intentions, they will not earn trust unless those intentions are clearly reflected in their behavior.
So, how can a trustworthy leader demonstrate integrity and earn trust? Here are a few key strategies:
- Take Responsibility and Share Credit: Quickly own up to mistakes and give credit to others for successes.
- Keep Promises and Be Honest: Always do what you say you will and tell the truth.
- Prioritize the Greater Good: Make decisions that benefit the team as a whole.
- Maintain Dignity: Behave respectfully and ethically, even when no one is watching.
- Act Consistently and Fairly: Treat everyone equally and uphold the same standards for all.
- Be Discreet: Keep confidences and respect privacy.
- Value All Team Members: Ensure everyone feels valued to prevent insecurity, suspicion, internal competition, and a lack of trust.
- Invest in Communication: Dedicate time to clear and effective communication.
On the flip side, trustworthy leaders avoid behaviors that undermine trust. They do not:
- Gossip
- Bend Rules for Personal Gain
- Rationalize Poor Decisions
- Foster Competition or Cliques
- Ignore or Favor Team Members
After extensive discussions with each organization and a thorough examination of their issues, I agreed to facilitate a “trust” session for one of them. The other organization, however, did not seem ready to hold their leaders accountable for behaviors that eroded trust, leading me to decline their request.
While trust cannot be trained in the traditional sense, leaders can cultivate it through consistent, ethical behavior and effective communication. The journey to trustworthiness is ongoing and requires a steadfast commitment to integrity.
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