Building Trust

This KnowledgeBase archive includes content and external links that were accurate and relevant as of September 30, 2019.

Trust is the essential element of any relationship. Most relationships begin with some level of implicit trust between the parties which is easy to lose and harder to regain. The following reflection on building trust suggest some basic attributes that all leaders should be aware of and practice.

Creating a workplace where people will work with others cooperatively and respectfully involves focusing on three dimensions.
    •    A constancy of purpose
    •    A willingness to share information
    •    Exhibiting confidence in people's abilities

Within each dimension there are key attributes leaders should keep in mind.

As to constancy of purpose it is important to:
    •    Do what you say you will do.
    •    Be consistent in your behaviors and decision making.
    •    Define your expectations and act in a way that reinforces them.
    •    Be willing to help others to get the job done.

While some people might adhere to the adage that knowledge is power it is only powerful when it is shared. While be willing to share information it is important to:
    •    Share relevant information that is pertinent to the group's work.
    •    Be truthful in all your communications.
    •    Do not speak ill of others.
    •    Respect people's privacy in their communications with you.
    •    When you make a mistake admit it.

Effective leaders have confidence in their people. In doing so they:
    •    Recognize that they do not have all the answers or even know all the questions. As a result they  are open to ideas and suggestions of their colleagues.
    •    Let the people doing the work be involved with the decisions about how the work gets done.
    •    Help people grow by creating a climate that encourages them to learn new skills.

The result is an organizational climate where people work together with respect and dignity to achieve organizational goals. A school with such an environment will be a welcoming place that enables students to achieve academic success, be a good place to work for the teachers and staff and be inviting to the parents and community.

Source:
Reflections on Leadership, Art Gross, Northrop Grumman Information Technology. The views expressed do not represent the views of Northrop Grumman Information Technology.

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