Building trust with difficult people can be a challenge, especially if you have different personalities, opinions, or goals. However, trust is essential for any successful relationship, whether it is personal or professional. In this article, you will learn some practical tips on how to build trust with difficult people, based on the principles of communication, empathy, and respect.
The first step to building trust with difficult people is to try to understand their perspective. This does not mean that you have to agree with them, but that you acknowledge their feelings, thoughts, and motivations. By doing this, you can show them that you are listening, that you care, and that you are willing to work with them. You can use open-ended questions, paraphrasing, and summarizing to demonstrate your understanding and clarify any misunderstandings.
The key is listening, acknowledging and using the others words were possible. Showing empathy, we don’t have to feel sorry for anyone but understand situation from their perspective. Let them speak and vent if needed, don’t interrupt or cut them off, sometimes people just need the opportunity to say. If you role entails listening to people with potential issues, you need to have a higher tolerance level. We wouldn’t know what that persons situation is and people react differently with stress.
The second step to building trust with difficult people is to find common ground. This means that you look for areas of agreement, shared interests, or mutual goals that can help you bridge the gap between your differences. By finding common ground, you can create a positive rapport, reduce tension, and foster cooperation. You can use compliments, humor, and stories to build rapport and show your appreciation for their strengths and contributions.
The third step to building trust with difficult people is to set boundaries and expectations. This means that you communicate clearly what you need, want, and expect from them, and what they can expect from you. By setting boundaries and expectations, you can establish mutual respect, avoid conflicts, and hold each other accountable. You can use assertive language, feedback, and agreements to set boundaries and expectations and reinforce them when necessary.
Setting boundaries and expectations with difficult people can be challenging, but it's an important skill to develop for your own well-being. Here are some steps you can take: Take some time to reflect on your needs, values, and limits. Communicate your boundaries clearly and openly state what you expect and what you are not willing to tolerate. Make it clear what actions you will take if they cross the line. Be prepared to follow through with these consequences if needed. Dealing with difficult people can be emotionally draining. Reach out to trusted friends, family, or colleagues for support and advice. They can provide perspective and help you stay strong in maintaining your boundaries.
The fourth step to building trust with difficult people is to show consistency and reliability. This means that you follow through on your promises, deliver on your commitments, and act in a way that matches your words. By showing consistency and reliability, you can prove your credibility, integrity, and dependability. You can use reminders, updates, and acknowledgments to show consistency and reliability and demonstrate your value and professionalism.
I came across this intriguing analogy in a podcast not long ago, and it's really stuck with me. Building relationships, especially with clients, is a lot like managing your bank account. Imagine this: before you even think about making a withdrawal, you need to make three solid deposits. That means being fully present, setting clear expectations, and following through consistently. In my experience, it's crucial to avoid over-promising and under-delivering. Instead, I believe in going the extra mile to exceed expectations. By doing so, you not only build trust but also create a lasting impression that sets the foundation for a strong and successful relationship
The fifth step to building trust with difficult people is to be open and honest. This means that you share your thoughts, feelings, and opinions in a respectful and constructive way, and that you admit your mistakes and apologize when appropriate. By being open and honest, you can express your authenticity, vulnerability, and humility. You can use disclosure, feedback, and apologies to be open and honest and build trust and rapport.
The sixth step to building trust with difficult people is to give and receive trust. This means that you show them that you trust them by delegating tasks, sharing information, and supporting their decisions, and that you accept their trust by taking responsibility, respecting confidentiality, and delivering results. By giving and receiving trust, you can create a positive cycle of trust that strengthens your relationship and enhances your performance. You can use delegation, collaboration, and recognition to give and receive trust and show your appreciation and confidence.