When it comes to high-performing teams, authentic leadership, and strong relationships, trust isn’t a nice-to-have…it’s the foundation.
But here’s something I’ve learned after more than two decades of working with leaders and teams around the world: Trust isn’t built all at once, it’s built in small amounts, over time.
We sometimes think trust comes from a grand gesture, a big reveal of vulnerability, or a team retreat. While these moments can be meaningful, the truth is that trust is built (and broken) in the day-to-day interactions we have with the people around us.
It’s built in how we show up in meetings and how we keep our word. It’s built when we listen, really listen. And it’s built when we say the hard thing, with care and compassion.
The Myth of the “Trust Fall”
In my early days of speaking, I used to joke about the old-school team-building exercise, the classic “trust fall.” You know, where you fall backwards and hope someone catches you?
It’s a fun metaphor, but real trust doesn’t happen in one dramatic moment. Authentic trust is more like compound interest. Small deposits made consistently that grow over time into something powerful.
So, how do we make these trust deposits?
Here are a few everyday ways to build trust in our teams and relationships:
1. Do What You Say You’ll Do
This might sound simple, but consistency builds trust. When we follow through on commitments (big or small) we reinforce that others can count on us.
2. Own Your Mistakes
Nobody’s perfect. In fact, pretending to be can erode trust. When we take responsibility for our missteps, we show others that we’re accountable; and human. We also remind ourselves and others that vulnerability is actually a strength.
3. Give Others the Benefit of the Doubt
It’s easy to assume negative intent when things go sideways. But assuming positive intent, even when we’re frustrated, keeps the lines of communication open and invites mutual understanding.
4. Operate With Empathy
Trust grows when people feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether it’s a team member struggling through a tough season or a colleague celebrating a win, taking a moment to recognize what’s going on for them matters.
5. Speak Up, Even When It’s Hard
Authenticity fuels trust. That means being willing to say the uncomfortable thing, not to tear someone down, but to build the relationship up. Real connection happens when we’re honest and kind. The foundation of trusting relationships and teams is often the willingness to have those sweaty-palmed conversations, even when they might seem scary.
Trust Is a Daily Practice
Think about the relationships in your life you trust the most. Your closest friend, your most supportive colleague, your partner. Chances are, the trust you have with those important people wasn’t built in a single moment. It was built over coffee chats, honest check-ins, follow-through, and forgiveness.
The same is true for teams, organizations, and leaders. Trust is built in the small, meaningful moments…day by day, choice by choice.
And in a world that often feels uncertain and disconnected, trust remains one of the most powerful currencies we have.
Have you experienced a time when a small moment made a big impact on your trust in someone else? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.