How can Library Services professionals build trust with other departments?

1 Understand their needs

The first step to building trust is to understand the needs and goals of the departments you work with. You can do this by conducting surveys, interviews, or focus groups to gather feedback and insights. You can also attend their meetings, events, or trainings to learn more about their projects, challenges, and achievements. By showing interest and empathy, you can demonstrate your value and relevance as a Library Services professional.

2 Communicate effectively

The second step to building trust is to communicate effectively with other departments. You can do this by using clear, concise, and respectful language, avoiding jargon and acronyms, and providing relevant and timely information. You can also use various channels and formats, such as email, phone, chat, video, newsletters, reports, or presentations, to suit their preferences and needs. By communicating effectively, you can establish your credibility and reliability as a Library Services professional.

3 Collaborate proactively

The third step to building trust is to collaborate proactively with other departments. You can do this by initiating, joining, or facilitating projects, committees, or initiatives that involve cross-departmental cooperation. You can also share your expertise, resources, or tools, offer your support or assistance, and seek their input or feedback. By collaborating proactively, you can create mutual benefits and opportunities as a Library Services professional.

4 Appreciate and acknowledge

The fourth step to building trust is to appreciate and acknowledge the contributions and achievements of other departments. You can do this by sending thank-you notes, giving compliments, or celebrating successes. You can also recognize their challenges, difficulties, or frustrations, and offer your sympathy or solutions. By appreciating and acknowledging, you can show your respect and gratitude as a Library Services professional.

5 Learn and improve

The fifth step to building trust is to learn and improve your skills and knowledge as a Library Services professional. You can do this by seeking feedback, evaluation, or mentoring from other departments, and applying their suggestions or recommendations. You can also pursue professional development opportunities, such as courses, webinars, or conferences, to keep up with the latest trends and best practices. By learning and improving, you can enhance your performance and quality as a Library Services professional.

6 Be transparent and accountable

The sixth and final step to building trust is to be transparent and accountable for your actions and decisions as a Library Services professional. You can do this by setting clear expectations and boundaries, following through on your commitments and promises, and admitting and correcting your mistakes. You can also report your progress, results, or challenges, and explain your rationale or evidence. By being transparent and accountable, you can build your reputation and integrity as a Library Services professional.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?