How to create an engaging and trusting environment at the workplace? There are several areas on which you should concentrate, according to an article on the management-issues.com website, originally published by the INSEAD business school.
Attitude to feedback
How senior leaders deal with feedback is also very important for development of trust. For both persons – the one providing feedback and the one receiving it – this exercise requires a lot of trust. Giving feedback is much easier if the hierarchy is reduced. If senior managers are willing to receive feedback from colleagues at all levels, this can help considerably.
Fairness of processes
In order to build trust, employees must be treated fairly. Senior managers must be accountable, regular performance appraisals put in place and work assignments as well as promotions distributed fairly.
Recognition
In order to create an atmosphere of trust, colleagues who have done a good job must be recognised and praised. When top managers appreciate and acknowledge contributions made by employees at lower levels, the trust-building benefits are enormous.
Developing employees
People trust organisations which are interested in growth and the development of employees. People feel much better when they are seen as human beings rather than money-making machines. Part of this is the onboarding process: it is important to treat people well as soon as they enter the organisation. Make newcomers feel welcome: apart from other benefits, this will also improve employee retention.
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