We know trust when we see it.
It has a significant impact on every interaction. It’s the foundation of all of our relationships, work and personal.
Some research indicates a lack of trust in the workplace, especially during tough economic times, or when an organization is struggling. One poll by Maritz found:
- 11 percent of employees strongly agreed their managers show consistency between their words and actions
- 7 percent of employees strongly agreed they trust senior leaders to look out for their best interest.
Trust requires a healthy dose of vulnerability and humility — something all leaders can benefit from.
It’s often the small things we do, or the words we use, that strengthens or diminishes trust over time.
Subtle language that breeds mistrust
- “Oops. I’m late again.”
- “Give me a second and let me just answer this email first.”
- “Sorry it took me so long to respond.”
- “I don’t know why they insist on always …”
- “It’s time to reorganize again.”
- “This isn’t that big of a change.”
- “It’s their fault, not ours.”
- “No issues. Everything is perfectly on track.”
- “They never get it right.”
Subtle language that breeds trust
- “These are the issues and this is how I will resolve them.”
- “I am interested in hearing your opinion.”
- “Next time, I’ll do ____ differently.”
- “You have my undivided attention.”
- “I can understand why this must be frustrating for you.”
- “I am committed to starting and ending this meeting on-time.”
- “What holes can you poke in my assumptions?”
- “This is where I could use some advice.”
In his book, The Speed of Trust, author Stephen Covey identifies 13 behaviors that build and maintain trust in any situation:
- Talk straight;
- Demonstrate respect;
- Create transparency;
- Right wrongs;
- Show loyalty;
- Deliver results;
- Get better;
- Confront reality;
- Clarify expectation;
- Practice accountability;
- Listen first;
- Keep commitments;
- Extend trust.
Trust is difficult to build, yet easy to destroy. Pay attention to and shift your language — and watch the cycle of mistrust chip away.
This was originally published on PeopleResult’s Current blog.