Taking over an established team It's a challenge many of us face. Here are a few practical strategies, thought-provoking questions, and an activity to help you win the trust of your new team.
Acknowledge the Past:
As a new leader, it's essential to acknowledge the team's history and achievements. Recognize the efforts and successes of the past, and show your respect for the work that has been done. This sets a positive tone for your leadership. What are some significant achievements of your team that you can celebrate and build upon?
Open Communication Channels:
Building trust starts with open and transparent communication. Encourage team members to share their thoughts, concerns, and ideas. Listen actively and show that their voices are valued. How can you create an environment where team members feel comfortable expressing themselves?
Set Clear Expectations:
Clearly define your expectations for the team's goals, roles, and responsibilities. This clarity fosters trust by ensuring everyone knows what is expected of them. How can you ensure that your team understands their individual and collective responsibilities?
Lead by Example:
Be a role model for the behavior and values you expect from your team. Demonstrate integrity, accountability, and a strong work ethic. What actions can you take to exemplify the qualities you wish to see in your team?
Empower and Delegate:
Trust your team members to handle tasks independently. Delegate responsibilities and provide them with the autonomy to make decisions. This shows confidence in their abilities. What tasks can you delegate to team members to empower them and promote trust?
Address Issues Promptly:
When conflicts or challenges arise, address them promptly and constructively. Show that you're committed to resolving issues and maintaining a positive work environment. How can you approach and resolve conflicts within your team while preserving trust?
Activity: Trust-Building Team Exercise
Divide your team into small groups. Ask each group to brainstorm and list qualities and actions that build trust within a team. Have each group share their ideas, and compile a master list of trust-building qualities and actions.
Discuss how the team can collectively practice these trust-building behaviors.
Building trust as a new leader of an established team is a journey that requires patience, empathy, and consistent effort. By acknowledging the past, fostering open communication, setting clear expectations, leading by example, empowering your team, and addressing issues promptly, you'll be well on your way to winning their trust.
Remember, trust is the foundation upon which successful teams are built. Now, it's your turn to put these strategies into action and embark on the path to becoming a trusted and effective leader.
Dr. Merrylue Martin is President and CEO of the Job Joy Group and best-selling author of the Big Quit Survival Guide. To learn more, visit www.JobJoyGroup.com and connect on LinkedIn.