TRUST

I trust you 100% - magic words which can transform a relationship. How can one be in any type of a without trust? Trust is the basic foundation on which all relationships are built. In a professional relationship, Trust can actually enhance performance, bring greater sense of responsibility, breed ownership and help build a great team.

During my career, when I have moved from one position to another, I have always tried to build a team which can be trusted 100%. I have tried to take people who carry my trust. Trust does not mean, having 'yes' men around you or having people who will do as you say. It does not not mean building a team of admirers who tell you that you are the best thing which has happened to this company. To me Trust worthy team members are those who have strong integrity, are responsible. will challenge if they feel one is wrong. they will have ideas and speak openly, but if their idea or recommendation is not approved, they will give their 100% to the idea which is finally approved. To my finance colleagues, I normally say, you are my policeman. I tell them, if I do something wrong or go beyond my approved authority, you have to stop me. If I do something which you feel is not in line with Company policy, you will stop me or warn me. We are all humans and can make mistakes, but then we must have team members who look out for you and ensure all is done in line with laid out Company policies.

In my recent assignment, I was asked by someone in a higher position, not to trust anyone and be careful of what people say. In the 1st place, why would I have anyone in my team in whom I cannot place my trust? How can I as a leader function when I cannot trust working with me. One should be very clear about the difference between trust and following up on day to day work. On the 2nd aspect, people will always say what they want to say, one can't stop insecure people gossiping. As long as you know, you are doing your best with great integrity, honesty and to the best of your ability, these people do not matter.

My advise would be, trust your team but don't use them as an excuse for your failure to follow-up, check, advise and getting things done. As I said earlier, trust by my bosses have always resulted in me working with greater sense of responsibility and ensuring I do not let the person down who has put his trust in me. If you do not trust someone working under you, replace them - if someone above you, does not trust you, request a transfer or find a new job.