Building trust in the workplace: keys and best practices

Trust is one of the cornerstones of business success. It is not limited to a simple employer-employee relationship, but extends to every interaction within the organization. A company that inspires trust and fosters a climate of confidence among its employees increases productivity and retains talent. But how do you build this trust and maintain it on a day-to-day basis?

1. Why is trust crucial in business?

Business confidence cannot be decreed, it has to be built up over time. A bit like a plant: you have to water it regularly... and avoid stepping on it. Yet in France, only 21% of employees trust their managers(LumApps), which shows just how important it is for companies to create a climate of trust. A company that inspires trust becomes an environment where employees feel valued, listened to and supported in their efforts. This translates into better communication, greater productivity and stronger collaboration between teams. On the other hand, a lack of trust can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts and a loss ofcommitment on the part of employees, who may then seek other opportunities elsewhere.

2. How can we inspire confidence as a company?

Practicing transparency

Employees need to feel informed and involved in important decisions affecting their work and the company. Whether it's about long-term objectives, strategic changes or financial results, open communication is essential. Transparency means not only sharing information, but also explaining the reasons behind the choices made.

Example: A manager who explains why a project failed and shares the lessons learned from this experience inspires confidence, because he shows that he is willing to take responsibility for his mistakes and learn from them.

Meeting commitments

When commitments are honored, employees feel secure and confident in the direction the company is taking. But when promises are broken, even in trivial ways, it can lead to a sense of betrayal and undermine team commitment. In short: it's better to promise less and deliver more, rather than the other way around.

Example: If a company undertakes to provide ongoing training for its employees, it must ensure that this training takes place as planned.

Valuing individual talent and success

An employee who sees his or her efforts recognized and appreciated will have greater confidence in the company and its management. Recognition doesn't just have to be verbal; it can also take the form of promotions, increased responsibilities or rewards.

3. How do you build trust between employees?

Encouraging collaboration

Cooperation creates strong bonds between team members and generates a healthy working atmosphere. Companies that encourage teamwork foster a climate of trust where employees can freely exchange and share constructive feedback.

Tip: Organize brainstorming sessions or collaborative meetings so that every employee can express his or her ideas in a caring environment.

Promoting active listening

Active listening not only helps to understand employees' needs, concerns and suggestions, but also shows them that they are being taken seriously. This creates an emotional bond that strengthens the professional relationship.

Example: A manager who takes the time to ask his colleagues how they feel about their work, and who takes action to improve their well-being, inspires great confidence.

Creating a respectful and inclusive work environment

Companies need to create an environment where everyone feels respected, whatever their role or background. Inclusion and diversity not only respect human values, but also foster greater collaboration and creativity within teams.

4. The benefits of solid business confidence

Improving performance and productivity

A trust-based work environment encourages employees to give their best. They are more motivated, more committed and more productive when they trust their management and colleagues.

Reducing turnover

Employees who feel respected and supported are less likely to seek other employment. Trust in the company creates a stable, reassuring environment that encourages talent retention.

Stimulating creativity and innovation

When employees know they can share an idea without fear of being judged or rejected, they are more inclined to take the initiative. A team that trusts each other is a team ready to innovate and overcome challenges together.

By inspiring trust, companies foster a working environment where employees are fulfilled, productive and loyal.

Investing in trust is investing in your company's future. Whether you're a manager or an employee, it's in everyone's interest to cultivate this trust to guarantee optimal performance and working conditions.

By Candice Lhomme