Trust plays a pivotal role in creating a safe workplace culture. Here are 3 reasons why trust is an important element for Supervisors and Managers to consider.
Fostering open and collaborative environment.
When trust-based relationships exist between leaders and team members, safety concerns are more likely to be raised and addressed.
Trust fosters a collaborative and caring environment where people work together to prevent harm and promote health for everyone.
Building Credibility and Reliability:
Credibility: Trust is built on credibility. Credible leaders know what they are talking about and also recognize when they don’t. They seek input from team members who have firsthand knowledge of risks and hazards.
Reliability: Trust is reinforced through follow-through. Leaders who address safety concerns promptly and communicate actions taken build trust. Keeping the team informed about safety measures is crucial.
Positive Safety Culture:
Trust ensures that health and safety feedback is willingly provided by team members.
It reinforces positive behaviors and redirects unsafe ones.
Trust makes team members feel supported, valued, and protected within the workplace.
Trust is the bedrock upon which lasting human relationships are built on, and coincidently, safe workplace culture is built on the very same foundation. When leaders build trust, they create an environment where safety thrives and everyone’s well-being is important.
Here are some effective strategies for building trust:
Be Real:
When managers show authenticity, employees perceive them as human and relatable. Create an environment where sharing of vulnerabilities and weaknesses is ok. This encourages open communication and trust.
Ask, Don’t Tell:
Instead of giving orders, ask open-ended questions. Encourage employees to find their own solutions. Trust that answers lie within the team, not just with you.
Follow Through:
Keep your promises. Do what you say you’ll do. Consistently delivering on commitments builds trust.
Be an Objective Observer:
Provide constructive feedback without judgment. Help employees grow by objectively assessing their performance.
Give Permission to explore, create, even, fail:
Create an environment where employees are encouraged to openly communicate ideas, explore options, where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities. When employees feel safe to express, explore, even if they fail, trust grows.
Assign Stretch Tasks:
Challenge employees with tasks that push their limits. Show confidence in their abilities.
Listen and Care:
Actively listen to employees’ concerns. Show empathy and address their needs. Caring builds trust.
Be Transparent:
Be transparent about decisions, challenges, and goals. Involve employees in the process.
Remember, trust is built over time through consistent actions and genuine interactions. When supervisors and managers create an environment where trust is valued, employees feel seen, heard, understood and are motivated to contribute their best.
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