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The Foundation
The foundation of any relationship, including a professional one, starts with trust. Trust is something that helps a business gain the most effort from its workers, which thus increases success. In return, when the staff trusts their leadership, they become more inclined to put in all efforts to help increase the company’s growth. All staff members deserve the opportunity to be able to learn and grow, which derives from mutual trust and respect. If trust is established, the team is most likely to produce a successful outcome.
Here are 4 tips that have been proven effective to enhance trust between superiors and their subordinates:
1. Open Communication
One way to build trust in the workplace is by establishing open-door communication. This happens when direct reports and their managers agree to have respectful and honest conversations at any given time. Aside from the occasional company e-mails, and yearly conference calls, it is a good practice to schedule a weekly one on one for accountability. A one on one (or manager to employee meeting) opens the conversation by creating a comfortable atmosphere for both parties to talk freely. Building a culture where employees feel confident in discussing concerns with no repercussions is crucial for building trust. Ultimately, this process is reinforced by creating a comfortable transparency in the workplace to ensure that all parties are on the same page.
2. Be Approachable
Another way to create trust between employees is by being approachable. Start by having management engage in casual conversation and participate in social company gatherings. This shows the front line workers that their supervisors are willing to be vulnerable. Leadership should also take the initiative to take a portion of the work when an important project is assigned. When supervisors are willing to pitch in, it alleviates a lot of tension and stress. A boss that is willing to help tends to build trust, increase employee retention, and sets their team up for success. All it takes is a welcoming smile and a leader who shows sincerity. The key to gaining the trust of the staff is to be a genuinely approachable leader.
3. Encourage and Empower
Furthermore, an additional way to create trust between employees is by having management encourage and empower their ideas. Some employees may have a valuable skill that goes unnoticed until one of them brings a new suggestion to the table. This is a great opportunity for leadership to show confidence in their workers, and increase the level of trust among their staff. Believing in them, and encouraging them to grow in their career leads to a solid partnership and appreciation. If the concept of the idea seems like it might need some work, reassure them that it is a great start, but make sure to provide honest feedback.
4. Practice Effective Listening
Lastly, managers should create trust between employees by practicing effective listening skills. Listening to their employees while being silent and taking notes indicates to the employee that their boss cares enough to stay engaged. Looking at their workers in the eye as they speak, asking them questions, and jotting down comments to help them respond show good characteristics of someone they can trust. This behavior shows the worker that their boss is engaged and listening to what they have to say. Their notes should be used during future one on one sessions to develop trust and accountability.
Put These Tips into Action
From the first impression to the last day on the job, each engagement with the staff is a chance to put these tips into action. Although each person views trust differently, it is necessary to support a successful company. When management is transparent, honest, friendly, open, communicative, and encouraging, they are more likely to create trust with their employees.
