Important Steps toward Building Trust and Loyalty

“Success is nothing more than a few simple disciplines, practiced every day.”
Jim Rohn

A recent survey conducted by an Associate Professor at Florida State University revealed that very frequently people act inappropriately around those they are supposed to lead which results in distrust and disloyalty. For example, the study found 39 percent of employees felt their supervisor failed to keep promises and 23 percent complained their supervisor blames others to cover mistakes and minimize fault. In conclusion, the survey determined at least 1/3 of all leaders are perceived to be engaging in dishonest behaviors. Is there any uncertainty as to why skepticism and doubt are on the rise in our society today?

In today’s world of dishonesty, mistrust, doubt and suspicion, it is more difficult and yet perhaps more important than ever before for people and leaders to build relationships of trust and loyalty. With increasing disloyalty and distrust in the world and workforce, how do good leaders overcome this? The following are four surefire ways to build trust and loyalty in the workforce, at home, or in any situation.

1. Set the Right Example

People and leaders who build trust and loyalty are people who set the right example at all times. To do this we must do what we ask others to do and live by the same rules we ask others to live by. We must avoid double standards and special privileges that others will see as unfair. We must be determined to make the right decision always, even when it is difficult or when no one is watching.

2. Be Direct in Communication

To build trust and loyalty, we need to be very open and straightforward in our communication. We must speak candidly and honestly even during situations of conflict and confrontation. We must refrain from suppressing our feelings or hiding what we really think or believe inside--sharing our opinions openly and honestly. We must be frank and strive to communicate clearly and often. Leaders who gain trust and loyalty express themselves frequently, in an effective and meaningful way.

3. Ensure the Message is Clear

Leaders who foster trust and loyalty always follow-up to ensure messages are clear. By doing this, we can help avoid miscommunication and/or misunderstandings. By being specific and direct in presenting information, and then verifing the message was received and understood, we are being proactive and skillful communicators. As we do this, trust and loyalty will grow.

4. Listen Attentively

A good leader listens to others. Sincerely listening to others will create instant rapport and will foster a relationship of trust and respect. We must take time to listen to others empathetically, and they will willingly "go to war” for us during difficult times.

So why is building trust and loyalty important to effective leaders? Building trust and loyalty creates a productive and positive environment where people want to be led. Creating such an environment allows others to feel at ease and maximize their potential. Building trust and loyalty makes others much more willingly to go above and beyond what is asked of them. In contrast, a dishonest environment invites unnecessary tension, exhaustion, and even depression. Likewise, once trust is lost, it is hard to regain. Finally, distrust breeds distrust and disloyalty breeds disloyalty.

Setting an example, being direct in our communication, making sure the message is clear, and listening attentively will help us become a person and a leader who inspires trust and loyalty. Creating an environment of loyalty along with relationships of trust will help us be a better person and will ultimately result in greater success in all walks of life.