Every leader wants an environment where all team members feel they are an integral part, and that they are contributing to the good of the organization. When this happens, we get results. To build an environment like this, we must start with TRUST. This is not new, we know this. The question is, it may seem natural and easy, but how do we do it?

I have found we must demonstrate and show people we BELIEVE and CARE about them. Here are four steps you can take that may help in establishing the needed TRUST.

BELIEVE THAT YOUR PEOPLE WANT TO CONTRIBUTE
Here is what I know to be true—most if not all (maybe 99%) of the people come to work wanting to do well and try hard. So it is our duty to show up thinking about them the same way. Remember, you are the leader, it starts with you. If you don’t trust people, why should they trust you?

DEMONSTRATE THAT EVERYONE COUNTS
Studies have shown most successful companies have a culture where every person FEELS VALUED. No matter what their position, they know they matter and their contribution makes a difference. Legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden used to liken his team to a car. One star player may be like a powerful engine, while others may be like nuts that hold the wheel, but if we lose the wheel, how good is the engine?

THE MORE THEY KNOW, THE MORE THEY CARE
Share information, provide data. Here is one thing I have learned and know to be true YOU CAN’T OVER COMMUNICATE. Just be careful you don’t UNDER COMMUNICATE—that will BITE YOU. It stings.

ASK QUESTIONS THAT PROMOTE INSIGHT
Stay curious, spend some time with as many different employees as possible. What is in their head? How can you make their job better for them? Not a bad idea to seek the same of your customers. We are demonstrating care when we ask questions, and REALLY LISTEN.

Remember TRUST IS THE CURRENCY OF ALL RELATIONSHIPS.