Trust is a critical component of any relationship, including those that are built between managers and employees. In order for their working relationship to be productive and rewarding, the trust must go both ways.
Of course, given the power dynamics that are often at play—not to mention the misgivings some employees may have about communicating openly with supervisors—it can be a challenge for managers to create real trust with the people they are tasked with leading. 14 members of Forbes Coaches Council discuss the smartest ways for managers to build two-way relationships with their employees that are based on mutual trust.
11. Listen More And Talk Less
This sounds simple but is hard to do: Listen more and talk less. A two-way relationship is built through dialogue rather than a monologue. Take the time to hear the perspective of employees and co-create the conversation. When you have the temptation to tell and not ask, to speak and not listen, wait and ask yourself, “Why am I talking?” – Kristy Busija, Next Conversation Coaching, LLC