Jonathan Eisler, Vice President, AllOne Consulting
This article is part of the Becoming Your Best leadership programming provided by AllOne Consulting.
The Power of Trust in Leadership
Trust is the cornerstone of great leadership. Without trust, teams become disengaged, communication breaks down, and productivity suffers. When leaders prioritize building and maintaining trust, they create a workplace where collaboration thrives, innovation flourishes, and employees feel empowered.
A 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer report found that employees who trust their leaders are 74% more engaged and 50% more productive. Establishing trust is not just a leadership virtue—it’s a business imperative.
Why Trust Matters in Leadership
1. Strengthens Team Cohesion
Trust fosters collaboration, making it easier for teams to work together toward shared goals without fear of judgment or failure.
2. Enhances Employee Engagement
Employees who trust their leaders are more committed, engaged, and motivated to contribute at their highest level.
3. Improves Decision-Making
When trust exists, team members openly share ideas, provide honest feedback, and make decisions more efficiently.
4. Reduces Turnover and Conflict
Organizations with high trust levels experience lower turnover rates and fewer workplace conflicts, leading to a more stable work environment.
How to Build and Maintain Trust as a Leader
1. Be Transparent and Honest
Share information openly, explain the rationale behind decisions, and be upfront about challenges. Transparency builds confidence in leadership.
2. Follow Through on Commitments
Nothing erodes trust faster than broken promises. Honor commitments and be reliable in delivering on expectations.
3. Encourage Open and Honest Communication
Create a culture where employees feel safe expressing their ideas, concerns, and feedback without fear of retribution.
4. Show Vulnerability and Authenticity
Leaders who admit mistakes and show their human side build stronger connections with their teams.
5. Recognize and Appreciate Contributions
Acknowledge and reward team efforts regularly to reinforce a culture of trust and appreciation.
Reflection: Are You a Trustworthy Leader?
- Do your employees feel safe sharing their thoughts with you?
- Are you consistent in your words and actions?
- How do you handle mistakes—do you take responsibility or shift blame?
If trust needs strengthening, take intentional steps to be more transparent, reliable, and authentic.
Final Thoughts
Trust is not built overnight, but it can be eroded in an instant. Great leaders proactively cultivate trust through honesty, reliability, and genuine care for their teams. By making trust a leadership priority, you foster an environment where employees feel valued, respected, and motivated to succeed.
This week, take one intentional action to build trust—whether it’s delivering on a commitment, being transparent in a decision, or offering authentic recognition to a team member.
