Summary
Trust is the cornerstone of effective leadership. This week we explore practical ways to build and maintain trust.
Transcript
Hello and welcome to episode 196 of the Leadership Today podcast where each week we share practical tips to improve your leadership. This week we explore how to build trust. Trust is not just a word; it's the cornerstone of effective leadership. Anyone who has experienced working with someone they didn't trust understands the detrimental impact a lack of trust can have. The definition of trust we use at Leadership Today is “being confident you have my best interests at heart and can be relied upon to deliver”. Let's break down the two crucial elements of trust and explore actionable steps you can take to build it.
Element One - Having My Best Interests at Heart
Here are four actions you can take to build connection and care.
Action 1: Build a Personal Connection
Begin by getting to know the people you lead on a personal level. Understand their career aspirations, interests, and what truly fulfils them in their work. Genuine conversations about their goals and challenges help foster a deeper understanding.
Action 2: Demonstrate Genuine Care
Show that you genuinely care about your team members' well-being. Advocate for their interests and advancement. Look for opportunities to support their growth, whether it's through projects that align with their interests or training that boosts their skills.
Action 3: Provide Personalised Recognition
Recognise and celebrate the unique contributions of each team member. Publicly acknowledge their achievements and show appreciation for their efforts.
Action 4: Regular Check-ins and Feedback
Engage in regular one-on-one conversations to discuss progress, challenges, and goals. Seek feedback on your leadership style and actions, showing that you are open to improvement and value their input.
Element Two - Being Reliable
Here are four actions you can take to foster competence and consistency.
Action 1: Set Clear Expectations
Communicate your commitments and expectations clearly. Let your team know what you're working on and what they can expect from you. Clarity minimises uncertainty and establishes a foundation of trust.
Action 2: Demonstrate Expertise
Share your knowledge and skills with the team. Offer guidance and support based on your expertise. Be careful to also remain open to diverse perspectives and be willing to learn from others.
Action 3: Consistency in Behaviour
Consistency breeds trust. Keep your emotions in check, regardless of circumstances. Uphold your values and principles consistently, demonstrating your reliability and predictability.
Action 4: Accountability and Humility
When things go well, acknowledge and praise your team's contributions. When things don't go as planned, take personal responsibility as the leader. Admit mistakes, apologise if necessary, and work together to find solutions.
Trust begins with you and your actions as a leader. By investing in these actionable steps, you can cultivate an environment of trust where your team members feel valued, supported, and empowered. Remember, trust is not just an outcome; it's a continuous effort that strengthens the foundation of your leadership journey. Choose one or two actions to try out this week and let me know how you go.
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