We’ve often discussed how to build trust with coworkers, but today we’re delving deeper into the importance of trust in the workplace and why it’s essential for fostering strong relationships within a company.
During the pandemic, most work environments underwent rapid and dramatic changes. Employees were forced to adapt and adjust immediately to keep operations running, and one of the most significant shifts was how managers approached their roles. This period tested the importance of trust at work, especially in the absence of direct oversight.
Initially, there were concerns that productivity might suffer without constant supervision. However, we’ve learned that trust is critical—not just for the workplace but for our lives overall. The benefits of trust in the workplace include smoother collaboration, better morale, and enhanced productivity. Trusting coworkers and fostering mutual respect are foundational to creating an effective team.
As humans, we need to trust and be trusted. Distrust consumes time and energy—two resources better spent improving teamwork and strengthening bonds with coworkers. Let’s focus on building a culture that values trust and respect in the workplace for the benefit of everyone involved.
Why Trust in the Workplace is Important
It’s a known fact: engaged employees perform better. Highly engaged teams are more productive, happier, and deliver better customer satisfaction. According to a recent Gallup poll, highly engaged workplaces increase company profits by 21%, underscoring the importance of trust in the workplace—a critical factor you can bank on.
Fortunately, recent studies show the benefits of trust in the workplace have increased since 2020. We’ve adapted to new ways of working (remember when “pivot” was the trending word of the year in 2020?), and even the most skeptical managers have come to appreciate why trusting coworkers matters.
These lessons go beyond just trends—the skills we’ve gained and the trust we’ve built will continue to shape the future of work. The importance of trust at work is now more evident than ever, as it enables businesses to thrive even in changing environments.
Here’s what we’ve learned:
- Clear, transparent communication is vital.
Keeping employees in the loop, checking in, and staying connected are essential for maintaining trust. Open communication lowers employee anxiety and ensures managers can monitor productivity effectively. Without clear communication, trust erodes, managers are left guessing, and team members become frustrated because they aren’t sure if they’re meeting goals. The importance of trust in the workplace becomes evident as disconnected employees often experience attrition, highlighting why fostering trusting coworkers relationships is key. - Empathy is a critical soft skill.
Every remote employee (and even those in the office) experiences stress on some level. Whether juggling family responsibilities or managing the isolation of remote work, empathy helps bridge gaps and builds trust. A lack of empathy—whether from a trusted colleague or a manager—leads to resentment, disconnection, and reduced productivity. The importance of trust and respect in the workplace cannot be overstated in creating a supportive environment for all employees.
Trust Works Both Ways: How to Build Trust in the Workplace
Teams cannot achieve peak productivity and effectiveness without emphasizing the importance of trust in the workplace. Here are a few strategies to foster trust:
- Provide simple, connective technology that works for everyone.
- Foster teamwork by offering hybrid work options.
- Treat your coworkers with respect.
- Encourage your teams to share ideas.
- Avoid micromanaging; instead, provide support and guidance when needed.
- Recognize and play to people’s strengths while accepting their weaknesses.
- Maintain accountability.
- Ensure everyone understands priorities.
These actions highlight how to build trust with coworkers and establish a strong foundation for collaboration and mutual respect.
Workspace Strategies focuses on what works by providing solutions to build trust and resilience across your organization, proving the benefits of trust in the workplace at every level.
