They have a great resume, are telling you all the things you want to hear, and seem to want your company to succeed. But how can you tell if they’re really a trustworthy leader?
Unfortunately, 80% of senior executives report being wrong about someone they trusted during their careers reports social psychologist Roderick Kramer. If you’re hiring a senior executive or want to exude more trustworthiness yourself, here are 5 key traits which Professor Kramer says all trustworthy leaders share.
- Trustworthy Leaders Project Confidence, Competence and Accessibility
Trustworthy leaders are not afraid to tell it like it is even if the news isn’t great. They are good at their work, deliver results and focus on what’s best for the firm. Leaders that interact with their team and workers at the company gain a reputation that boosts their trustworthiness.
- They Communicate The Importance of Trust
A great leader will not only talk about the importance of trust within the organization but will implement consequences if that trust is violated. Team members and subordinates then understand that the leader values trust and that it is an integral part of the company culture. Other ways to demonstrate such values is to empower individuals to make decisions. If leaders show that they trust their employees, then that will be reciprocated.
- Trustworthy Leaders Take Blame But Dish Out Credit
Whenever a project succeeds, if a leader gives credit where credit is due, not only does loyalty for the leader and company increase but people are more likely to trust that leader with their creative ideas and try new things. On the flip side, if something fails, a leader that shoulders the responsibility instead of pawning it off on a subordinate gains trust.
- They Create Systems that Can Be Trusted
When a leader can create a system that works and employees can rely on, more trust is built into the process and that leader sets a tone of trustworthiness. For example, if a process can be developed that adequately vets new ideas until they become solid and problem free, people are willing to trust it and move forward with confidence.
- They Are Anti-Crisis
When a leader can handle a problem with equanimity and poise instead of reacting and causing a crisis, they not only gain respect but people will be able to trust them with the responsibility. Leaders who acknowledge the problem and take quick definitive action build trust within their organizations.
What do you think makes a trustworthy leader? Share your thoughts in the comments.