?? Building Trust through Constructive Critique ?? As someone who frequently raises questions — even leading to a recent conversation with my Senate supervisor — I’ve learned how productive criticism and concern can actually foster trust. For many, including interns and junior team members, questions aren’t about challenging authority or competence. Often, they’re about understanding the “why” behind decisions: the reasoning, the contributing factors, and the best practices that led to a choice. People in direct report roles are eager to grow and need context to handle future responsibilities effectively. By sharing the logic behind decisions, supervisors not only encourage team development but also build a culture of trust and learning.

It’s natural to feel frustrated or defensive when your decisions are questioned, especially if you’ve put careful thought into them. Take the time to explain your thought process, the factors you considered, and how the decision aligns with the broader goals of the team or organization.Instead of jumping to conclusions or defending your decisions immediately, ask the team member to elaborate on their concerns. Admitting mistakes shows humility and encourages a culture of learning and growth.Show them that their input is important to you and that their success is integral to the team’s success.Over time, showing that you can be counted on to make well-reasoned decisions and act transparently will help build credibility and trust.

Create an environment where feedback is welcomed. Encourage the team member to share their thoughts and suggestions. This can foster a collaborative spirit and mutual respect.