The Four Elements of Trust

The Four Elements of Trust

 

1. Able is about demonstrating competence. Do the leaders know how to get

the job done? Are they able to produce results? Do they have the skills to make things

happen—including knowing the organization and equipping people with the resources

and information they need to get their job done?

2. Believable means acting with integrity. Leaders have to be honest in their

dealings with people. In practical terms, this means creating and following fair processes.

People need to feel that they are being treated equitably. It doesn’t necessarily mean

that everyone has to be treated the same way in all circumstances, but it does mean

that people are being treated appropriately and justly based on their own unique

circumstances. Believability is also about acting in a consistent, values-driven manner that

reassures employees that they can rely on their leaders.

3. Connected is about demonstrating care and concern for other people.

It means focusing on people and identifying their needs. It is supported by good

communication skills. Leaders need to openly share information about the organization

and about themselves. This allows the leader to be seen as more of a real person that

a direct report can identify with. When people share a little bit of information about

themselves, it creates a sense of connection.

4. Dependable is about reliably following through on what the leaders say

that they are going to do. It means being accountable for their actions and being

responsive to the needs of others. If leaders promise something, they must follow

through. It also requires being organized and predictable so that people can see that the

leaders have things in order and are able to follow through on their promises.