Build your leadership foundation

Posted: February 12, 2016 | Categories: Leadership, Self-Improvement, Team Building

When I help companies coach their teams to higher performance, there are four pillars that must be solidly in place:  Ownership, clarity, and accountability.  These pillars rest on a solid platform of trust.  Without this foundation, the three pillars crumble.

Just yesterday one of my clients asked me, “If we need to build more trust on our team, how do we do it?”  I hear this question more than any other.  While there are many things we can to strengthen trust, let’s start with three “bomb-proof” fundamentals that have stood since civilization has begun.

1. Show genuine interest in others.
2. Seek first to understand.
3. Be a good listener.
4. Be a good listener.

You probably noticed that I mentioned “be a good listener” twice.  That was intentional.  When it comes to trust building, that action is at the top of the charts.

Going beyond the fundamentals, let get so the specifics.  Make a list of all the people you work and interact with.  As you look at the list, select one person you would like to increase your level of trust with.  Next, set a time to have a private conversation with them.  You can say, “I am working on my professional development, and one of my goals is to get to know you better and strengthen our relationship.  With this in mind, I would like to set a time to sit down with you over a cup of coffee and have a conversation”.  (This may take a little courage).  Here are some sample questions:

1.  Where did you grow up?
2. What was it like growing up there?
3. What did you do before this job?
4. What made you decide to work for this company?
5. What do you feel is most challenging about your job?
6. Do you have a hobby?
7. Do you like to travel?
8. What are your favorite activities?

Make the conversation natural.  You don’t need to ask these questions.  These are only suggestions.  You may only ask one question, and that one question can uncover a gold mine.  This will take you to the first stage of strengthening trust:  Establishing commonality.

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