Trust is the cornerstone of all great leadership. Without it, it’s tough to inspire, motivate, or bring about meaningful change in your organization. Trust isn’t just a switch you can flip; it grows and deepens over time, offering various levels of connection and impact.
As an experienced leadership coach, I’ve discovered that there are four key levels of trust every leader needs to master to create an environment of openness, accountability, and peak performance.
Level 1: Contractual Trust:
This foundational level sets the groundwork. If you and your team can’t rely on each other to stick to your word and meet basic agreements, everything else falls apart. It’s simple but essential: do what you say you will.
Level 2: Competence Trust:
Trust deepens when people see you can effectively get the job done. It’s about showing up, delivering on your promises, and demonstrating that you have the skills to lead effectively. This kind of trust grows from your actions, your results, and your ability to handle your responsibilities like a pro.
Level 3: Vulnerability-Based Trust:
Here, the relationship shifts from professional to personal. When you’re open about your mistakes and welcome feedback, you show your team it’s safe to do the same. This kind of trust builds a supportive team environment where everyone feels they can be real, take risks, and innovate without fear of judgment.
Level 4: Identification-Based Trust:
The ultimate level of trust is when a deep emotional connection forms between you and your team. You share values and vision that pulls you all in the same direction. Here, your team doesn’t just work for you; they champion your cause and have your back, no matter what.
Navigating these levels of trust isn’t just about climbing a ladder; it’s about deepening your relationships and becoming a leader people not only respect but feel deeply connected to.
Remember, trust isn’t handed to you; it’s earned, one action, one word, and one decision at a time. Investing in these trust-building practices is the surest way to unleash the full potential of your team and drive your organization to new heights.
Lead From Within: Trust is not something you can activate instantly; it evolves and intensifies through stages, presenting multiple levels of connection and impact.
#1 N A T I O N A L B E S T S E L L E R
The Leadership Gap
What Gets Between You and Your Greatness
After decades of coaching powerful executives around the world, Lolly Daskal has observed that leaders rise to their positions relying on a specific set of values and traits. But in time, every executive reaches a point when their performance suffers and failure persists. Very few understand why or how to prevent it.
Additional Reading you might enjoy:
- People Trust Leaders Who Have These 5 Powerful Habits
- The Best Way for Leaders to Build Trust
- Great Leaders Don’t Say Just Trust Me
- Trust Matters. Learn How to Earn It and Keep It
- How the Best Leaders Build Trust
- How to Recognize a Trustworthy Leader
Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.