5 Ways You Can. A lack of trust can significantly hinder workplace dynamics and efficiency.
cy. In a recent community email, a team member expressed frustration with a coworker who re-dos work already completed by others, citing it as “due diligence.” This behavior can stem from a lack of trust, which takes time to build or rebuild. Here are five ways to rekindle trust:
Rapport
Establishing a rapport with the person at issue is essential. Effective communication should be the foundation of any team relationship. Engage in casual conversations, ask about their interests, or simply offer to grab lunch with them. Building rapport not only fosters trust but also helps to create a positive work environment.
Perspective
It’s crucial to identify the causes of the trust issues. Reflecting on past actions or inactions can provide valuable insights. Colleagues may have unintentionally contributed to the situation, and addressing these aspects can help to resolve the issue.
Deposits
Think of relationships as a bank account – to maintain a healthy balance, make regular deposits rather than withdrawals. Find an opportunity to help your colleague without expecting anything in return, and do so consistently. This will demonstrate your commitment to building trust.
Start Small
Trust-building requires patience and understanding. When working on large projects, start with smaller tasks that require low commitment and risk from your colleague. Gradually increase the scope of your collaborations to foster growth and development.
Recognize Change
When your colleague exhibits positive changes, acknowledge and appreciate their efforts. Praise and recognition can go a long way in reinforcing desired behaviors. By doing so, you demonstrate that you value and respect their contributions.
While every situation is unique, a combination of these strategies can help to rebuild trust. However, some cases may require more drastic measures. Directives to avoid re-work might ultimately erode remaining trust. Effective managers strive to exhaust alternative solutions before resorting to strict directives.
Rebuilding trust takes time and effort, but the payoff is well worth it. The question is, what will you do today to rekindle trust in the workplace?
Remember, building trust is a continuous process that requires commitment and perseverance. By incorporating these strategies into your daily interactions, you can foster a more positive and productive work environment.
