Ep #73: Earning Trust

Trust is the foundation upon which all successful relationships are built, personal or professional. Without trust, even the most technically brilliant individuals can become challenging to work with.  

 I once had a boss who possessed immense knowledge and experience, but our lack of trust hindered my growth and made it difficult to communicate.

This experience made me realise the importance of trust and its impact on our interactions with others, and that’s what I’m talking about in today’s episode. 

Understanding the Concept of Trust

While it may seem obvious that we need trust, its true meaning is often overlooked. Trust is not a light switch that can be turned on instantly. Instead, it is a gradual process that requires consistent effort and investment. Just like a piggy bank, each interaction either adds or withdraws trust coins. Respectful engagements contribute to building trust, while negative interactions and stress chip away at it.

Being Present and Consistent

To build trust, leaders must be present and genuinely engaged with their team members. This doesn't mean physically being in the office every day but rather establishing real connection points. Regular meetings and touchpoints, whether in person or virtual, offer opportunities to get to know each other on a deeper level. Consistency is also key. Leaders must show up and fulfill their commitments to create a solid bank balance of trust.

Openness and Meaningful Conversations

In addition to presence and consistency, openness and vulnerability play crucial roles in building trust. It's not about sharing every secret or personal detail but rather about showing up as our genuine selves and admitting our mistakes. By being vulnerable and authentic, leaders create a foundation of trust that encourages others to do the same. 

Trust is the cornerstone of exceptional leadership, that can help us unlock the full potential of our teams. So, let's take a moment to reflect on our relationships. Are they built on trust? Do they support us and encourage growth? 

If there are areas for improvement, don't worry. With a little TLC, any relationship can be transformed into one based on trust and mutual support. Start prioritising trust and watch as it becomes the catalyst for extraordinary leadership.