Trust is the foundation of modern life. It’s what allows us to believe traffic lights will work, the meals we eat at restaurants will be safe, and that Wham!’s “Last Christmas” will play every holiday season. Trust keeps things running smoothly.
The same is true for organizations. Whether you’re in the C-suite, managing a team, or starting your first job, trust is essential. You count on your colleagues to do their work correctly, on time, and with integrity.
Studies show employees who trust their companies are more creative, productive, and engaged. In contrast, those who lack trust in their organizations often experience burnout and stress, increasing the likelihood of quitting.
Trust and Teamwork: Why It Matters
When it comes to fostering trust, most discussions focus on leadership—managers earning trust from employees. However, trust within a team is equally critical. Think of it as the chorus in a song: it may not lead, but it’s the most memorable and impactful part.
Team trust is the bedrock of collaboration. It ensures that when the manager isn’t watching, the team still functions like a well-oiled machine.
How High-Performing Teams Build Trust
According to research from ignite80, high-performing teams prioritize trust and teamwork in three key ways:
- Purposeful Collaboration
Before starting a project, these teams discuss how they’ll work together, outlining plans to address potential obstacles. This proactive communication acknowledges individual strengths and preferences, building trust and respect. - Transparency
Open communication is a hallmark of teams that trust each other. They freely share information and provide regular updates, creating a sense of inclusion and mutual accountability. - Constructive Conflict Resolution
High-performing teams embrace disagreements as opportunities for growth. They resolve tensions quickly and share credit, fostering a culture where trust can flourish even during challenging moments.
Three Key Steps to Building Trust in Teams:
Building trust doesn’t happen overnight, but taking deliberate steps can make a significant impact. Here are three essential steps to build trust in teams:
- Foster Open Communication
Encourage team members to share ideas, feedback, and concerns without fear of judgment. Regular check-ins, both one-on-one and as a group, can create an environment where everyone feels heard and valued. - Recognize and Celebrate Strengths
Acknowledge each team member’s unique contributions. Celebrating achievements, both big and small, reinforces a sense of appreciation and camaraderie. - Lead by Example
Trust starts at the top. When leaders demonstrate reliability, transparency, and respect, it sets the tone for the entire team to follow suit.
Building Trust Through the Team Harmony Experience
While managers play an important role, trust and teamwork require effort from everyone. Programs like SongDivision’s Team Harmony provide a unique way to build trust in teams by harnessing the power of music.
Through the “Team Cohesion” module, participants:
- Learn strategies to foster trust within their team.
- Engage in interactive activities designed to improve workplace dynamics.
- Discover and appreciate their teammates’ strengths.
This innovative program culminates in a collaborative songwriting workshop led by world-class musicians. Music stimulates oxytocin, the hormone involved in bonding and trust, and dopamine, which is linked to engagement, happiness, and motivation.
As Carol Folt, president of the University of Southern California, wisely noted, “Trust is hard-earned, easily lost, and difficult to reestablish.”
With SongDivision’s Team Harmony program, your teams can create stronger bonds, your company culture will thrive, and your bottom line will hit new highs.
Ready to Build Trust in Your Teams?
Connect with us today to learn how SongDivision can help your organization achieve harmony through trust and teamwork and to find out more about our experiences and team building events, both in-person and virtual!