08/05/2020
THE POWER OF TRUST
A few years ago, I managed a very smart, hardworking, diligent team of trainers. Let’s call one of them John.
John was very intelligent. Ever hungry to grow, get coached and become the best version of himself. He was a colleague I thoroughly enjoyed working with.
As the months rolled by, I started to feel a sense of tension between John and I. I thought little of it.
I didn’t realize how bad things had become until a difficult conversation. I offered a compliment to John for his diligence and hard work to see a project through. John took my compliment as insincere and manipulation. He answered in anger and pain.
I was shocked by this and couldn’t figure out how a really good relationship had reached this level.
I’ve come to realize it all came down to one key skill – Trust.
When there is trust, people have confidence in you, feel safe around you and see you as credible. When there is trust, coaching is easier, leadership is smoother and productivity soars. When there is no trust, people watch your every move and think suspiciously of your every action. Without trust, coaching is tougher, actions are challenged, and sabotage can be on a high.
Trust is the foundation of it all.
Thank you John! You've made me a better leader.
What are some things you currently do to help build trust with your team members?
