Trust: Universal, But Evolving

This article is inspired by an original post by Justin Wright

?? The link to the original post, is in the comment.

Business is 100% about relationships. Relationships are 100% about trust.

But how we build trust is changing—not just for Gen Z, but for everyone entering the work place.

These are just observations based on trends and observations. Here’s how traditional trust-building compares to Gen Z & beyond’s evolving expectations:

1?? Traditional: Show up on time.

Respect others' time. It shows you value them.

?? Gen Z & Beyond: Show up with intent. Being present isn’t just about punctuality—it’s about bringing focus, energy, and purpose to every interaction.

2?? Traditional: Tell the truth.

Honesty lays the foundation for trust.

?? Gen Z & Beyond: Be transparent, even when it’s uncomfortable. People don’t just want honesty; they expect openness about challenges, uncertainties, and even failures.

3?? Traditional: Be real.

Authenticity invites others to do the same.

?? Gen Z & Beyond: Show your unpolished side. They distrust perfection and connect with people who share real struggles, not just highlight reels.

4?? Traditional: Show empathy.

Understanding others builds deeper connections.

?? Gen Z & Beyond: Stand up for what matters. Empathy isn’t just about listening—it’s about taking action on fairness, inclusion, and well-being.

5?? Traditional: Stay consistent in your actions.

Being reliable builds confidence in you.

?? Gen Z & Beyond: Be adaptable yet principled. Trust isn’t just about consistency—it’s about evolving while staying true to your values.

6?? Traditional: Ask for feedback.

It shows you're open to growth and change.

?? Gen Z & Beyond: Co-create, don’t just dictate. Trust isn’t built top-down—it grows when people feel heard, valued, and included in decisions.

7?? Traditional: Follow through.

Doing what you say proves you can be trusted.

?? Gen Z & Beyond: Follow up with impact. It’s not just about completing a task—it’s about showing how your actions drive meaningful change.

8?? Traditional: Keep private information confidential.

Respecting secrets earns respect in return.

?? Gen Z & Beyond: Be digitally ethical. Trust now extends to how you handle data, privacy, and online interactions in an era of digital exposure.

9?? Traditional: Apologize genuinely.

Owning up to your errors shows integrity.

?? Gen Z & Beyond: Take accountability and make amends. A simple “sorry” isn’t enough anymore—people expect actions that demonstrate real change.

?? Traditional: Admit your mistakes.

Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.

?? Gen Z & Beyond: Normalize imperfection. People don’t expect perfection, but they do expect honesty, self-awareness, and growth.

1??1?? Traditional: Respect boundaries.

It shows you care and builds mutual respect.

?? Gen Z & Beyond: Respect mental health and work-life balance. Trust is earned when well-being is prioritized over constant availability.

1??2?? Traditional: Be kind always.

Kindness is the language of trust.

?? Gen Z & Beyond: Be kind, but also be real. Performative kindness doesn’t cut it anymore—authentic care and follow-through matter more.

Trust is still everything, but how it’s earned is evolving across generations.

Today’s workforce values authenticity, transparency, and action.

Are we adapting to this new reality of trust?

Let’s keep this discussion going—what would you add to this list? ??

? #ChangeToImprove? #TrustMatters? #FutureOfWork? #LeadershipEvolution? #AuthenticityWins? #WorkplaceCulture? #TransparencyAtWork? #GenZWorkforce? #BuildingTrust? #NewRulesOfBusiness