In the last issue of Collective Thoughts, I shared about the importance of building trust on a team. It’s often easier said than done! But it definitely can (and should!) be done.
One of the most powerful ways to build trust is to communicate transparently and proactively.
If you take only one thing away from this reflection, please let it be this:
Be as transparent as possible as often as possible.
There’s certainly an element of discernment to this. As a leader, you can’t always tell your team everything. But when you see them as they are—talented, experienced, smart adults who you hired for a reason, and who bring perspectives you don’t have—you may realize you can be more open than you thought.
Collaboration is one of our core values at Way Forth, which means we believe our team members' voices matter A LOT. But they won’t offer their insights and perspectives as readily if they don't trust we're being transparent as well.
My business partner, Caitlin, and I not only share detailed updates about the state of the business with the team, but we’re also proactive in sharing both good and bad news.
Is it easy? Nope!
Does it require time, humility, thoughtfulness, and intentionality? Yep!
But, is it worth the effort? I wouldn’t lead a team any other way.
On the journey with you,
