Topic 4.1: Trust

Trust is a word that engenders a lot of responses in human social systems.  Personally, when you hear the word ‘trust’, do you think of an organisation, a brand or a person? For some people, it is almost easier to think of those organisations, brands or people that they may not trust.

Much of the literature in relation to trust suggests that it is fundamental to building strong team and stakeholder relationships. In the absence of trust, we will be guarded in our dealings with others and may not achieve the success that we need in working with others.

In a famous article in Harvard Business Review several years ago, Professor Amy Cuddy and her team explored the critical importance of trust as a platform for human connection. The central idea being that if I don’t trust you or your intent, I am less likely to be influenced by your message – even if you are seen as an ‘expert’ or leader in your field. The advice from the research underpinning their work suggests that ‘warmth before competence’ is critical in establishing positive personal and professional relationships.