Trust isn’t something that comes naturally in business; you must earn it and, together with respect, both go hand in hand when developing long lasting business relationships.
If you run your own company, or are in a leadership position, it’s important to be transparent and be open and honest, with clients, customers and employees. This is paramount in gaining respect and always remember that you have to earn it rather than it coming naturally because you’re the boss.
Here are five tips on how you can build trust in business:
- You must first demonstrate a technical competence for the role you are doing eg. let others know that you are capable and ‘know your stuff’. If people see that you do what you say you’re going to do and deliver great results, this quickly builds up their trust in you and your ability.
- Lead by example – ensure you demonstrate ethical conduct in all areas of your role and that you have a good character. When you achieve results, it’s easier for people to follow your lead, as they can see that you know what you’re doing.
- People need to have trust in your ability but if you’re not an expert in everything don’t worry, let other people do things that they’re good at; which usually generates the desired results. It’s also okay to admit when you don’t know something, especially if you surrounded yourself with the right people with the right skills to help you achieve outcomes.
- Always be transparent and upfront – interpersonal skills play a big part in today’s business world and a lack of transparency is one of the most damaging aspects in building trust. Be concise in the message you want to relay.
- Be accountable for your actions and know that it’s imperative to deliver on your word – if someone confides in you in confidence, be sensitive to that information and don’t break their confidentiality.
- If you manage people, it’s vital to demonstrate respect, trust and emotional intelligence and if you do this, you’ll gain their trust and respect. Treat others as you would like to be treated.
