We don’t get trust and respect given to us immediately do we?
However, we can begin earning trust and respect immediately. Or not.
We won’t get trust and respect just because we know everything, or lots, about the operation or the technicalities.
We won’t get it because we were great in our last role.
Trust and respect doesn’t come with the role – more often scepticism comes first – people might have been hurt by misplaced trust and respect before we got there.
We’ll get it more effectively and timely by following these steps:
- Be your best authentic self.
- Understand and apply the skill of leadership presence – you’ve got six seconds to make an impression.
- Listen and learn first, by asking, before you display your brilliance.
- Learn first about the culture – what works, what doesn’t.
- Get to know the people personally.
- Get clear about the agreed aspired values, vision and objectives – and live them meticulously.
- Own up to errors immediately and rectify them.
- When dealing with unacceptable behaviour and performance, ask open ended questions about their belief in the values as the agreed rules for behaviour and performance. This is a most important skill. The values are the most powerful leadership tool you have – if you learn how to harness them.
- Forgive up to three times, having them promptly rectify what needs to be rectified. Only then can you replace them. The exceptions are those serious issues requiring immediate removal, and they need to be well documented and well communicated.
- Be kind and show care as well as determination for all to behave and perform in accordance with the values and vision.
- Let them know when they’ve done a great job. Celebrate with them and get out of the way.
- Stay consistent, humble and learn forever.
What do you think?
