FILLING THE GAPS WITH TRUST

Fazmina Imamudeen writes about what it takes to build trust in the workplace

“Trust is the glue of life. It’s the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It’s the foundational principle that holds all relationships,” wrote author Stephen Covey. His words capture the significance of trust in our personal and professional lives.

And trust is even more critical in the workplace as it lays the foundation for a harmonious and productive environment.

Contrary to popular belief, a hefty salary alone doesn’t guarantee happiness at work. Instead, contentment flourishes in an atmosphere of trust and security. Imagine a workplace where trust thrives like an unstoppable force, propelling individuals and teams to unprecedented heights of success.

Research conducted by Great Place to Work® has delved into the very essence of trust. In the quest to cultivate a workplace built on trust, organisations must embrace the essential elements that underpin this coveted attribute. Credibility, respect and fairness serve as the pillars upon which trust is established and nurtured, shaping a culture that promotes collaboration, innovation and success.

Credibility is the first pillar: it’s anchored in effective communication and consistent action. Leaders must ensure that their public pronouncements align with the experiences of employees. A dissonance between the external perception of an inclusive and diverse company, and the internal reality, can breed cynicism and erode trust.

By demanding that public value statements mirror the internal employee experience, leaders demonstrate a commitment to transparency and authenticity, and bolster their credibility in the eyes of the workforce.

Moreover, credibility extends beyond mere words. It necessitates a reciprocal exchange of ideas and perspectives, and requires leaders to actively listen to their employees as much as they disseminate information.

Tangible action is also crucial as employees expect their feedback to yield meaningful change. By consistently translating feedback into concrete action, organisations exhibit their commitment to continuous improvement, and confirm that employees’ voices are heard and valued.

Respect, which is the second pillar, encompasses a range of practices that affirm the worth and dignity of individuals within a company. Creating a culture that supports work-life balance, acknowledging lives outside of work and setting a positive example are fundamental components of respect.

Leaders must show genuine interest in employees, recognise their unique identities and the values that matter to them beyond the confines of their professional roles. By demonstrating empathy and care, they foster an environment where people feel seen, understood and appreciated.

In addition, acknowledging employees’ contributions and going the extra mile to show appreciation is pivotal in fostering respect. Recognising the exceptional work and effort exerted by employees engenders a sense of validation and affirmation, and motivates them to achieve the organisation’s goals.

By prioritising their professional aspirations, businesses lay the groundwork for a respectful and supportive environment that values and invests in its workforce.

The third pillar is fairness. It ensures equitable treatment and opportunities for all individuals within the organisa­tion. By conducting regular reviews of compensation structures, companies can identify and address any pay disparities, and ensure that employees performing comparable work receive fair remuneration.

Equitable compensation not only reinforces a sense of fairness but also signifies a commitment to equality and diversity.

Furthermore, inclusive representation ensures that diverse perspectives are heard, considered and incorporated into strategic decisions. This increases fairness and prevents the concentration of power in the hands of a select few.

In the words of author Simon Sinek, “customers will never love a company until the employees love it first.”

This quote captures the crux of trust in the workplace and its profound impact on organisational success. When employees feel valued, heard and respected, they become invested in the company’s mission, and dedicate themselves to delivering exceptional results.

Trust is the catalyst for employee engagement, collaboration and innovation – and it eventually translates into customer satisfaction and loyalty. As leaders embrace the principles of trust, they will unlock the full potential of their workforce and pave the way for a remarkable journey of organisational achievement.