How to Create Trust in the Workplace: Recognizing Trust as a Powerful Motivator in the Workplace

Conveying trust to employees is a positive, motivating step any employer can take to achieve success.    

“When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don't adjust the goals, adjust the action steps.”  Confucius 

“Trust me,” an employer advises a new employee, aware that for him or her, there is invariably some degree of risk in trusting any new employee, particularly when it involves finances. “This will be your task.”

“I trust you,” signifies the employee, silently following the directives of the new employer. Should he or she be so naïve?

This employer knows one of the secrets to motivation and the way to the employee’s heart.

“Few things help an individual more than to place responsibility upon him and to let him know that you trust him.” - Booker Taliaferro Washington

When an employer assumes an attitude of trust towards his or her employees, they know it immediately and begin to act accordingly. Employees understand its importance and thrive on it. Gradually, they become increasingly willing to accept more and more responsibility. Their work becomes an exciting challenge that leads towards success in the workplace.   

Consider the following with respect to creating trust in a workplace environment.

The necessity of professionalism:

Creating an atmosphere of trust for employees comes naturally to some employers, who impress their employees with a high level of professionalism, comportment beyond reproach, as well as demonstrate respect for them. Consistent professionalism in the employment environment gradually increases the trust level of employees.   

Conveying positive, constructive and motivational directives to employees:

The employer’s manner of speaking with respect to employee orientation and workplace directives immediately helps to establish an understanding of what employees can expect. An aura of mutual trust begins to grow.

Note that first impressions are vital. A smile and a positive directive delivered by an employer who looks directly at the new employee, gives him or her, a sense of trustworthiness. Ongoing appropriate, positive and constructive directives reveal the serious nature and intent of the employer and lead toward positive motivation. Creating a realistic vision for the future helps to establish goals employees will attempt to meet.

A loving, caring and compassionate atmosphere:

Regardless of the nature of employment, employees have high expectations with respect to how they should be treated, namely in a loving, caring and compassionate manner. The employment environment should be comfortable, clean and safe. If there are problems, immediate, appropriate resolution is important.

Keeping your word as an employer:

Trust relationships are quickly broken when the word of an employer is not consistent in terms of his or her credibility. Promises made by employers should be kept, or an appropriate explanation given to employees when this is not possible due to a change in employment circumstances or the financial situation of a company, organization or institution.

Speaking to employees on a one to one basis:

How employers speak to employees helps to establish a trust relationship. Each employee is a unique and valued person. He or she is not someone who is easily dispensable, after he or she has been used or abused. Having direct communication with employees on an individual basis or in small groups is important. It can also eliminate potential future problems and help to develop a powerful trust relationship even further.

Clarity and accuracy of messages:

Messages conveyed to employees through a third party should be appropriate, at all times. Trust is immediately lost when messages conveyed to one employee appear to be in conflict with those from the same employer to others. They can be confusing for everyone. Future messages may also be questioned. The messenger speaking on behalf of the employer will likely lose his or her credibility, as well. A broken trust relationship may be difficult to regain.

Employers earn the trust of their employees. In fact, when they convey trust to them, in return, they will gain trust from them. Creating trust in a workplace is an art and an important step for employers who want to succeed.