Building Trust as a Leader

In any leadership role, trust is the foundation on which success is built. Without it, you risk not only disengaging your team but also limiting the very growth and progress you want to inspire. The question is, how do you actually foster trust with your team?

One of the most effective yet under-utilised ways to build trust is by seeking feedback from your team. This isn’t a one-time question but an ongoing practice that, when done right, helps promote a growth mindset and a culture of respectful challenge. Here’s how to make feedback a powerful tool in building trust:

1. Establish Consistency

Set a regular cadence—whether it’s during monthly one-on-ones, quarterly check-ins, or after key projects—so team members expect to share their insights with you. This consistency gives your team time to reflect and prepare meaningful feedback rather than feeling put on the spot. You may not get anything back the first, second or third time - but eventually your team expect you to ask and will come prepared with some insights.

2. Ask Targeted Questions

The question “Do you have any feedback for me?” can feel too broad or intimidating, leading to minimal or vague responses. Instead, try direct questions like:

• “Are you receiving enough feedback from me ?”

• “What’s one aspect of my leadership style that you find effective, and one area where I could improve?”

• “Is there anything I can do to make your role clearer or easier to perform?”

By being specific, you encourage team members to think critically about their experiences and feel more comfortable sharing constructive feedback.

3. Take Action on Feedback

Requesting feedback is only part of the equation. If you don’t respond to or act on the insights your team shares, it can erode trust rather than build it. When you receive feedback, acknowledge it, show appreciation, and take steps to implement changes when possible. For example, if a team member suggests clearer communication during project kick-offs, make an effort to outline expectations more explicitly in the next project.

Another powerful tool to show your team you value their feedback is to check back in later, to see if they have noticed any improvement or if further change is required.

Do this the right way and you demonstrate that feedback isn’t just a box to check—it’s a powerful tool for continuous improvement.