Trust, like respect, has to be earned over time. In the workplace that can be difficult because when someone is hired to do a job you need to place some trust in the immediately.
Here are three definitions of what trust is;
(1) Trust is assured reliance on the character, ability, strength or truth of someone or something.
(2) Trust; one in which confidence is placed.
(3) Trust means being able to predict what other people will do and what situations will occur.
If we can surround ourselves with people we trust, then we can create a safe and good environment in which to work. These three definitions all sound wonderful, but how do we develop “trust” with those we work with since it is an essential factor that needs to be in the workplace?
Here are a few trust building steps that have been proven over time do develop that bond of trust between people in the workplace setting;
Be honest at all costs, as it is better to have been honest when you have done something wrong then to have told a lie and then later been found out. Repairing this type of damage with an employer or co-worker is very hard if it can be done at all.
Try to consistently use good judgment; do not talk about those you work with unless it is in a positive way. Bad mouthing someone or gossip will be found out and is looked down upon. Think before you act, that extra 10 seconds of thought may save your reputation.
Be dependable, show up for work each day on time. Do the work that is expected of you and then some. Under promise and over deliver, doing this shows a lot about the type of person you are.
Take the time to listen to others and value them for whom they are. Support your employer and co-workers 100% and employers do the same for your employees. Work together to find ways that you can help one another do a better job each day for the customers that you serve.
Employers make sure you ask your employees for feedback on workplace systems and when they give it to you, use it, and let them know how it was beneficial to you. Take the time to thank each other each day for a good days work.
These steps may sound simple, but it is truly amazing how many people will tell you that they do not happen in their place of employment. It does take time to build the bond of trust, but it is hard for me to imagine working day in and out in an environment that it does not exist.
Ralph Waldo Emerson said it best; “Trust men and they will be true to you; treat them greatly and they will show themselves great.”
Today is a new day; make sure you are taking the steps to build the bonds of trust with those you work with.
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