The foundation of trust.

I have come to believe at the core of your leadership is trust. Isn’t trust at the heart of any relationship? And leadership is about the relationship between you and the people you choose to lead.

As leaders, we build respect by showing respect; this can be the bridge that leads to trust. Below are some factors necessary for building a trusting relationship.

• Integrity: Knowing the right thing to do and always doing the right thing.
• Dependable: Being consistent, walking the walk, and always being predictable.
• Approachable: Your people need to know you are there for them.
• Competence: Your people know you strive for excellence and are committed to learning and growing.
• Openness/vulnerable: You are willing to admit wrongdoing and are humble enough to be coachable.
• Care: Your people know you genuinely care about them, not by your words but by deeds.

These are just a few that come to mind. You may think of more and add them to your list. The above factors are a good reminder for leaders to maintain trust as the foundation of your leadership/relationship.

Trust is the glue that holds the organization together. As we continue to build upon trust, your ability to lead and influence increases.

I love this quote from Jack Welch, former Chairman of General Electric, “The only thing that walks back from the tomb with the mourners and refuses to be buried is the character of the person. It can never be buried.”