>More than 1 in 3 employees (34%) say that trust with their senior managers is weak, but it’s much higher with their colleagues and line managers.
That’s according to a new report from the CIPD. Interestingly, many senior managers actually believe that the levels are higher, so clearly there’s a bit of a mis-match here which probably exasperates the situation!
The good news is that the things that leaders need to do to build trust are relatively simple things. Asked what they want from their leaders to enhance and build trust with them people revealed some fairly obvious things.
What they want from their leaders are….
- Approachability
- Competence
- Consistency
- Acting With Honesty And Integrity and…
- Leading By Example
The report also highlighted that they also admire leaders who ‘admit mistakes’, ‘consult on major decisions and ask for employee opinions’ and ‘treat staff fairly and with respect’.
It is all fairly obvious stuff, but it’s clear that many leaders aren’t doing this – how do you measure up? Dare you ask?
I can’t help thinking by simply asking the question will go a long way to start the trust building process – it demonstrates ‘approachability’ and ‘competence’ which is a good start!
Even better, do something as a result of what you hear – that’s ‘acting with honesty and integrity’ and ‘leading by example’!
Be prepared to ‘admit mistakes’ and ‘respect people’s answers’.
Do this ‘consistently’ and you’re well on your way!
