How Can You Create Trust in a Team?

Transcript

[Presenter] When you trust someone, you feel you can rely on them to do the right thing. So much so, you're comfortable putting yourself in their hands.

Without trust, a team isn't really a team at all: it's just a collection of individuals. People might not share key information and they might battle over small things – all of which can hold you back.

But, when there's trust within a team, people feel safe. Safe to get out of their comfort zones, to take risks, and to rely on one another. With trust comes innovation, collaboration, and increased productivity.

How to Build Trust in Your Team

So how can you build trust within your team? Well, here are six ways to do just that.

1. Lead by example

As a leader, your team is always watching you. So show them how it's done.

Keep your word, be as open and honest as you can, and show up when you're needed. By putting your own trust in your team, you'll lead by example and earn their trust in return.

2. Communicate openly

Communication is one of the fundamental building blocks of trust. So make sure everyone knows the team's purpose and goals, and who's responsible for what.

People might roll their eyes at the idea of team building exercises, but try out a few to help break the ice, deepen relationships, and improve key skills.

Have regular meetings with your team members and give them a chance to talk about how they feel and what they want.

Again, lead by example. Foster a culture of openness by being open yourself.

3. Get to know each other

Most people aren't going to trust strangers, so get to know each other a little bit better outside of work.

Share and be curious. Talk about your own life, and ask, sensitively, about other people's. Consider setting aside some time for informal group meetings where you don't just focus on work.

4. Don't place blame

Things will go wrong at times. But, while accountability is important, simply placing blame and pointing the finger is a surefire way to destroy any trust your team has built.

Instead, try to approach the problem as a team. What can you all do to fix it? How can you make sure it doesn't happen again?

5. Discourage cliques

It's natural for friendships to form at work, but avoid cliquey behavior, like gossiping or leaving people out. Don't ever try to break up friendships, but do your best to find ways to include everyone.

Maybe organize a team social event or pair up people who don't usually work together on projects.

6. Discuss existing trust issues

If there's an existing lack of trust in your team, talk about it.

You could ask people to fill in a questionnaire anonymously on why they think there's a problem. Then, sensitively, mediate a conversation between the team or individuals involved.

It might feel easier to ignore situations like these, but naming and facing problems, like a lack of trust, will demonstrate your integrity and courage to tackle issues head on. It will also set the tone for your team members to reestablish and build trust together going forward.

Let's recap.

To build team trust, try the following six methods:

• Lead by example.
• Communicate openly.
• Get to know one another personally.
• Don't place blame.
• Discourage cliques.
• Discuss trust issues together.

These tips apply to everyone, from line managers to the most junior members of the team and new starts. But it's not all down to you. Trust in a team requires everyone to be communicative, open-minded, and ready to place their faith in others. And, in return, to deliver on the trust that is placed in them.