In all workplaces, trust is an invaluable asset that forms the foundation of effective collaboration and teamwork. Distance erodes trust, therefore the remote and hybrid workforce places a dire need for extra effort to keep trust strong.  It’s well known that when trust is high, costs are low, and the opposite is a costly price tag for organizations and employees.

Trust is one of those fragile elements of a relationship, that when broken, can strain relationships, hinder productivity, and rack up the high cost of conflict. There are some practical steps to rebuild trust across workplace colleagues if it has been compromised.

Rebuilding Trust…

• Acknowledge Why Trust Has Been Broken: The first step in rebuilding trust is to acknowledge the breach. By encouraging open and honest dialogue, all parties can express feelings and concerns. This acknowledgment demonstrates a commitment to resolving the issue and allows for a safe space where everyone has the opportunity to share perspectives without judgment or interruption.
  
• Take Responsibility: By apologizing for any role played in the breach of trust, one takes responsibility for their actions and the impact it’s had on others. Admitting mistakes and expressing remorse takes courage, but the effort will gain trust and respect as you show your commitment to making amends. Don’t make excuses or shift blame, or you will continue to erode trust.
  
• Set Boundaries: Once trust has been compromised, it is essential to set clear boundaries, which can be done with open discussions about what is acceptable and desirable behaviour at work. Co-create new commitments and communicate them effectively, so everyone understands the standards they’re striving to meet. Consistency and transparency in maintaining boundaries will rebuild trust gradually.
  
• Be Consistent and Reliable: Consistency is critical when rebuilding trust. Deliver on your promises and meet deadlines consistently.  If you fail to meet a commitment, forgive yourself, admit it quickly, and apologize. You’re human, and by acknowledging your own performance, others won’t have to.  Being reliable with your word, and doing what you say you’ll do will rebuild faith among coworkers, which will help restore confidence in your ability to contribute to a trusting and productive work environment.
  
• Active Listening and Empathy: Active listening and empathy play a huge role in rebuilding trust. Taking the time to listen to coworkers’ concerns and experiences without interruption or judgment helps you understand their perspectives and validate their feelings. Empathy demonstrates that you value others’ emotions and are genuinely interested and invested in rebuilding trust. This fosters an environment where mutual understanding can thrive.

Rebuilding trust in the workplace after it has been broken is challenging but not impossible. Here’s a timeless leadership tip with video that I made a few years ago while working through rebuilding trust in my personal life after a devastating relationship breakdown.

“Just Trust” is much easier said than done.  Acknowledge the breach, take responsibility, set clear boundaries, be consistent, listen and empathize. This is a complex recipe to restore trust and it works. You may not get it all done perfectly, but you can TRUST that you’ll be building a solid foundation for a healthy and productive work environment, and giving yourself the opportunity to have the high-quality relationships that you seek and deserve.

Call me if you need some help,

Penny

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