The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines “trust” as “assured reliance on the character, ability, strength or truth of someone or something.”
When I talk to executives about the issue of trust, I always hear about the strong bond they have with their people. Read Fortune’s “Top Companies to Work For” list, and you will find trust is a critical aspect of their success. Without it, a company is doomed.
Knowing that, why is the employer/employee relationship fraught with so many challenges? The best relationships are based on compromise, consistency and common beliefs — not easy things.
Here’s a checklist for building trust:
- Set realistic expectations.
- Live up to your work — not just your written agreements.
- When you make a mistake, admit it
- Interview for common beliefs — not just tactical proficiency.
- Be willing to say you are sorry.
- Give credit to others when they help you succeed.
- Don’t talk behind people’s backs.
- Know when to keep your mouth shut.
- Have a vision for your work environment.
- Realize that life is not fair and live accordingly.
- Make the best of every day and every human encounter.