In the dance of leadership, choosing to “earn” trust instead of just “building” it is like finding the secret ingredient for success. Let’s dive into the world of trust, using everyday language and relatable examples to show why “earning” trust is not just a phrase but a game-changer.
The Trust Dance:
Picture this as a dance – one person holds the key to trust (Trust Giver), and the other really wants it (Trust Receiver). Whether it’s at work, in your community, or at home, the person holding the key has the power to decide whether to trust or not.
Friendly Leadership vs. Bossy Leadership:
Think of being a leader like being a good friend or a friendly parent, not the bossy type. Being a friendly leader is not about telling people what to do but working with them. It’s like a parent who earns a child’s trust by being trustworthy, not just because they’re in charge.
Leadership Lessons from Big Companies:
Take Microsoft, for example. Instead of just saying, “I’m the boss,” the leader, Satya Nadella, says, “Let’s work together.” This friendly approach not only makes Microsoft a great place to work but also makes people outside the company trust it more.
Being Trustworthy is like Being a Good Friend:
Let’s look at a company like Patagonia. They’re like a good friend who cares about the environment. They don’t just talk about it; they show it by using eco-friendly materials. It’s like a friend who doesn’t just say they care – they prove it with actions.
Trust and Doing What You Say:
Imagine you have a friend who always does what they promise. That consistency is what builds trust. It’s the same with companies like Zappos. They’re like that reliable friend who always treats you well, making you trust them more.
Making Trust Simple:
Switching from “building” to “earning” trust isn’t just wordplay. It’s like changing the music in the dance of leadership. To make it simple for your team, follow these five steps:
- Be a Good Teammate: Understand your team members and show you care about their needs.
- Talk Openly: Speak honestly and let your team know what to expect. No secrets!
- Do What You Say: Be someone your team can count on, especially when things get tough.
- Stick to Your Values: Make decisions that match the principles you believe in. Be true to yourself.
- Keep Learning Together: Stay curious and encourage your team to grow. Trust thrives in a learning environment.
By following these steps, you’re not just building trust; you’re earning it. It’s like creating a magic potion that transforms your workplace into a space where trust isn’t just a word – it’s a living, breathing part of your success story.
Dr. Arpita Sen holds a bachelor’s degree in Dental Surgery (BDS) from YMT Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai. She also holds an MBA in Human Resources from Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), Mumbai, where she graduated as a double gold medallist. She is the co-author of Not a Rat Race: Success Mantras of World Athletes (2023), and Winning as Husband and Wife: Decoding the Success Mantras of Marriage (2026), co-written with Abhirup. She currently leads Learning, Organization Development, DEI, Culture, Talent and HR Strategy at a multinational organization. She writes on growth, leadership, and the future of work in her blogs, mindofhr.com and hustlerguru.com, and has been featured across several speaking platforms, podcasts and panel discussions. In her free time, she enjoys travelling, reading novels, singing and performing classical dance. She can be reached on Instagram at @authorarpitasen and on LinkedIn
Read her books:
Not a Rat Race: Success Mantras of World Atheletes
Winning as Husband and Wife: Decoding the Success Mantras of Marriage
