“Building strong relationships with your people by being transparent, authentic, and available leads to an immeasurably valuable asset called trust.” – Chuck Cooper

Building trust with employees is crucial for managers in small and midsize companies. Here are our five top actions managers should take to build trust with their employees:

1. Communication: Open and transparent communication is the foundation of trust. Managers should ensure they communicate frequently and honestly with their employees. This includes continuous feedback on job performance; sharing company updates, goals, and challenges; and acknowledging both successes and failures. Encouraging two-way communication and actively listening to employees' feedback and concerns is equally important.
2. Leading by Example: Trust is built when employees see their managers embody the values and principles they expect from their team. Managers should demonstrate integrity, reliability, and fairness in their actions and decision-making. They should also be accountable for their mistakes and take responsibility for their actions, showing that they are not above the standards they set for their employees.
3. Empowerment and Recognition: Managers should empower their employees by giving them autonomy to make decisions within their roles and responsibilities. When employees feel trusted to take ownership of their work, it boosts their confidence and motivation. Additionally, recognizing and appreciating employees' efforts and achievements publicly reinforces the trust they have in their manager. Remember, praise publicly, coach privately.
4. Support and Development: Managers should actively support the professional growth and development of their employees. This includes providing opportunities for learning and skill-building, offering mentorship or coaching, and having regular, ongoing performance discussions to set goals and provide constructive feedback. When employees see that their manager is invested in their growth, it builds trust and loyalty.
5. Work-Life Balance: Managers should be considerate of their employees' work-life balance and well-being. Avoiding burnout and promoting a healthy work environment demonstrate care and respect for employees' personal lives. Flexible work arrangements and accommodating personal needs when feasible can foster a sense of trust and appreciation.

By consistently practicing these actions, managers can create a positive and trusting work culture that fosters productivity, engagement, and loyalty among employees in small and midsize companies.

Learn More About Building a Healthy Workplace Culture

Trust is paramount for any kind of healthy and effective workplace relationship. We’d love to tell you more about ways to create a culture of trust. Schedule a time to chat with WhiteWater Consulting today.