Rebuilding Trust for Executives and Managers

Relationships affect processes, processes affect outcomes, outcomes affect profit. When relationships go bad and there is difficulty rebuilding, it is usually because trust is broken.

People need to be able to trust you as a representation of the company. Here are some steps that you can take to build or rebuild trust, and set your business on a better foundation. Business savvy professionals will know how to capitalize on these strategies.

Rebuilding Trust

Put the focus on the future relationship

Forget about right and wrong. Move things forward by letting them know that the relationship is what you care about and what is important. A productive relationship can be a foundation for the success that you envision.

Let them vent, and test your understanding

Sometimes people want to feel understood and heard, before trust can be increased. It is important that the executive not try to defend their personal honor in this situation. Giving the other person space to express themselves can facilitate healing. Ask for clarification, and try to understand the emotions that they are feeling. Briefly suspend consideration of your own desired outcome in the situation while you listen.

Prevent future problems and check-in on the relationship

Show them that you are invested in an improved future relationship by creating a plan to prevent or better address future problems. Decide together on a future time when you can meet and talk through feelings about the current state of things.

Building trust with a new partner or someone you don't know? Start here.

Exposure Effect : Bring them in and show them the real you

The more we are exposed to something - like a person, idea, or object - the more we like it. Just think that commercial you always see over and over. Have a personal chat with someone after a work event, or invite a potential investor to tour the facility. Perhaps you can setup a new business deal over the course of a few meetings, giving them time to know you and like you better.

Reciprocity and Disclosure: Have a heart and be authentic

I once had a great and inspirational meeting to start a project. The project manager asked everyone on the team to go around the room and share the reason why they decided to work at the company and this project particularly. Needless to say, there was no need for any firebrand motivation or additional gifts and trinkets for good performance. After sharing authentically, the team all understood what was driving each of us and some gained additional inspiration from hearing others' perspectives. Reciprocity and disclosure can be an invitation to cooperation.

Your Next Challenge: To be the best you can be!

Now that you have considered these ideas, how can you put them into practice?

These insights could be your key to success!