Openness and Trust

A safe work environment should be the ultimate goal of every organisation. It’s everyone’s job to set the tone and create the foundation for people to open up. Trust is a conviction that is built slowly through repeated interactions that take place over a long period. Openness and trust are essential for creating any personal, professional, or organisational relationship. Trust is the foundation of collaboration, communication, and performance, and it can make or break your success in any endeavour. Communication is the key to any relationship; openness and trust enhance it in many ways. It helps you to communicate empathetically, listen actively, acknowledge emotions, and show appreciation. By communicating transparently and openly, you build trust by demonstrating your reliability, credibility, and integrity and inviting feedback, input, and dialogue. Openness and Trust are not always easy or comfortable to practice, but their rewards make them worthwhile. To practice these values in your context, you should be clear about your purpose, values, and intentions and communicate them authentically. Share relevant information, feedback, and opinions without withholding or exaggerating. Listen attentively and respectfully to others without judging or dismissing their ideas. Ask for others’ feedback, input, and perspectives without assuming or ignoring them. Acknowledge your mistakes, apologise sincerely, and take action to correct them. Don’t forget to express your appreciation for others’ contributions and achievements. Finally, be open to learning and changing without being defensive or complacent. By embracing this and providing it back, the relationship will flourish - and trust will deepen.