How to Build Trust Through Sincere Communication

13 Phrases That Build Trust Trust in sales comes from transparency, respect, and giving people the space to make their own decisions. Here are some phrases that foster that trust: 1. “My job is to make sure you have the information you need so you can make a decision.” This reassures the prospect that your goal isn’t to push them but to help them make the best choice for themselves. 2. “Would it make sense to schedule a demo so you can see how it works?” Instead of pressuring them, this gives them control. People resist being forced but appreciate having options. 3. “Here are the benefits and drawbacks.” Only sharing the positives feels untrustworthy. A balanced view builds credibility because no solution is perfect. 4. “What do you think you’ll do?” When people verbalize their own decision, they feel a stronger sense of ownership and commitment. 5. “What’s your theory on why that is?” Encourages reflection rather than making them feel like they’re being guided to a pre-set conclusion. 6. “Here’s what I know. And here’s what I don’t know.” Admitting gaps in knowledge makes the information you do provide more credible. 7. “Would it be helpful if I shared how others have handled this?” This gives them a way to say yes without feeling pressured into a sales pitch. 8. “If this isn’t a fit, that’s totally fine.” Removes pressure and reassures them that they’re in control of the decision. 9. “Feel free to push back if this doesn’t make sense.” Invites open conversation rather than silent resistance. 10. “Let’s figure this out together.” Shifts the dynamic from seller vs. buyer to a collaborative problem-solving approach. 11. “It sounds like you have a reason for saying that.” Encourages them to elaborate without feeling challenged or defensive. 12. “It seems like you have some concerns.” Acknowledges hesitation in a way that makes them feel heard and understood. 13. “You’ve probably considered outsourcing it.” Assumes they’re already aware of your solution but have chosen not to switch, preventing them from feeling uninformed or defensive. Each of these phrases helps build trust by reducing the pressure to say “yes” before they’re ready.

86% of executives believe employee trust is soaring. (Yet only 67% of employees actually trust their leaders.) I remember confidently walking into our quarterly review. Our metrics were up. Our strategy was clear. I thought trust was high. I was wrong. Here's what was really happening: → Top talent quietly updating their LinkedIn. → Real feedback staying buried in private chats. → Innovation dying in "yes" meetings. → Engagement surveys hiding hard truths. After losing three star employees in one month, I realized: Trust isn't built in fancy workshops or team events. It's cultivated through consistent moments that matter. 10 science-backed trust builders that transformed my team: (And won us an award!): 1/ Kill Information Hoarding (It's Hurting You) ↳ 85% trust transparent communicators. ↳ WHY: In the absence of clarity, fear fills the gap. ↳ HOW: Share board meeting notes company-wide. ↳ Pro Tip: Share bad news faster than good news. 2/ Own Your Mistakes (Like Your Career Depends On It) ↳ Leaders who admit errors gain 4x more trust. ↳ WHY: Perfect leaders are feared, not trusted. ↳ HOW: Share mistakes in weekly all-hands. ↳ Pro Tip: Add what you learned and your fix. 3/ Master Active Listening (Beyond The Basics) ↳ 62% trust leaders who truly hear them. ↳ WHY: Everyone knows fake listening from real attention. ↳ HOW: Block "listening hours." No phone, no laptop. ↳ Pro Tip: Summarize what you heard before responding. 4/ Show Real Empathy (It's A Skill, Not A Trait) ↳ 76% trust leaders who understand their challenges. ↳ WHY: People don't care what you know until they know you care. ↳ HOW: Start meetings with "What's challenging you?." ↳ Pro Tip: Follow up on personal matters they share. 5/ Invest In Their Growth (Play The Long Game) ↳ 70% trust leaders who develop their people. ↳ WHY: Investment in them is an investment in trust. ↳ HOW: Give every team member a growth budget. ↳ Pro Tip: Help them grow, even if they might leave. The Results? Our trust scores jumped 43% in six months. Retention hit an all-time high. Real conversations replaced surface-level meetings. Your Next Move: 1. Pick ONE trust builder. 2. Practice it for 7 days. 3. Come back and share what changed. Remember: In a world of AI and automation, trust is your ultimate competitive advantage. ↓ Which trust builder will you start with? Share below. ♻️ Share this with a leader who needs this wake-up call 🔔 Follow me (@Loren) for more evidence-based leadership insights [Sources: HBR, Forbes, Gallup]

Some of the worst advice out there... not only can you smell it a mile away, but it actually sets you back more than in propels you forward. “Fake It Till You Make It." The mentality might seem harmless... or even empowering. but here’s the truth: it’s a strategy that holds you back in the long run. When we rely on posturing or “faking it,” we create temporary value... a shaky foundation that breeds uncertainty and self-doubt over time. This approach can chip away at genuine confidence, leaving you second-guessing your abilities rather than embracing your true strengths. If you’re “kind of” believing in what you can do, it will lead to “kind of” results. And let’s be honest: no one invests in that. Here’s a path that builds lasting impact and real credibility: 1. Embrace Where You Are Right Now. Actionable Step: List out the top 3 strengths you bring to the table today. Focus on where you already add value. Use this clarity as your guide when you’re in new or challenging situations. This way, you’re building on a solid, authentic foundation... not pretending to be somewhere you’re not. Starting with a clear view of your strengths gives you a confidence rooted in reality... and equips you to approach each opportunity with authenticity. 2. Get Clear on Your Unique Value. Actionable Step: Identify one specific problem you can solve that aligns with your skills and expertise. Write it down in one sentence (e.g., “I help teams bridge strategy and execution gaps to drive measurable results.”). Use this as a go-to when you’re speaking with potential clients or partners. This clarity around your value will set you apart, making it easier for others to see why they should work with you... not just anyone who fits the role. 3. Bridge Your Gaps Authentically. Actionable Step: Acknowledge a skill or area you’re actively developing. Take one concrete action toward growth each week... whether that’s: - reading - building relationships - mentoring Share this journey with trusted colleagues or clients... without underselling yourself... so they experience your commitment to excellence and your drive to evolve. Owning both your strengths and areas for growth builds long-term credibility and shows others that you’re committed to being the best version of yourself. It’s how true leaders inspire and foster trust. And trust accelerates EVERYTHING.

As a recruiter, I am a firm believer in the extraordinary power of listening, considering it one of our most crucial abilities. In the rush of our busy lives, it's easy to underestimate the impact of truly hearing someone. But make no mistake, it can be a game-changer - both professionally and personally. » Listening Builds Trust: When we actively listen to our candidates and clients, we're not just hearing words; we're absorbing their stories, aspirations, and concerns. This builds a foundation of trust that is vital in our line of work. Trust opens doors, fosters collaboration, and paves the way for genuine relationships. » Meeting Needs: Every candidate and client has unique needs. By listening attentively, we gain the insight needed to tailor our services to precisely those needs. It's like having a map to navigate the often complex terrain of recruitment. » Valuing Perspectives: Listening also allows us to appreciate different perspectives. It reminds us that diversity isn't just about backgrounds and experiences; it's about the richness of ideas that emerge when we truly engage with others. » Resolving Issues: In the face of challenges or conflicts, listening can be the first step to resolution. It shows empathy and a willingness to understand, which can be the turning point in solving even the most intricate problems. So, how can we cultivate this superpower? ☆ Be Present: Put away distractions and give your full attention. Show that you value what the other person is saying. ☆ Empathize: Try to understand not just the words but the emotions behind them. This empathy is the bedrock of trust. ☆ Ask Questions: Encourage open dialogue. Sometimes, the most profound insights emerge from the questions we ask. ☆ Practice Patience: Listening takes time, but it's an investment that pays dividends in the form of strong, lasting relationships. ☆ Feedback Loop: Remember, listening isn't just about hearing; it's about responding. Show that you've listened by taking actions that reflect what you've heard. In the realm of recruitment, much like in life itself, I believe the art of listening serves as our covert advantage. It enables us to forge profound connections, deliver authentic value, and, ultimately, leave a positive imprint. #BuildingTrust #LoveWhatYouDo #YouMatter #EffectiveCommunication Next Level Career Partners, LLC

Trust is not something you have, but something you do. 6 proven ways to build unshakeable trust with your team, TODAY: (Sample situations and scripts are included) 1. Say what you do. Minimize surprises. ➜Why: Consistency in communication ensures everyone is on the same page, reducing uncertainties and building reliability. ➜Situation: After a meeting, promptly send out a summary of what was agreed upon, including the next steps, owners, and deadlines. ➜Script: "Thank you for the productive meeting. As discussed, here are our next steps with respective owners and deadlines. Please review and let me know if any clarifications are needed." 2. Do what you say. Deliver on commitments. ➜Why: Keeping your word demonstrates dependability and earns you respect and trust. ➜Situation: Regularly update stakeholders on the project's progress. Send out a report showing the project is on track, and proactively communicate any potential risks. ➜Script: "Here's the latest project update. We're on track with our milestones. I've also identified some potential risks and our mitigation strategies." 3. Extend the bridge of trust. Assume good intent. ➜Why: Trust grows in a culture of understanding and empathy. Giving others the benefit of the doubt fosters a supportive and trusting environment. ➜Situation: If a team member misses an important meeting, approach them with concern and understanding instead of jumping to conclusions. ➜Script: "I noticed you weren’t at today’s meeting, [Name]. I hope everything is okay. We discussed [key topics]. Let me know if you need a recap or if there's anything you want to discuss or add." 4. Be transparent in communication, decision-making, and admitting mistakes. ➜Why: Honesty in sharing information and rationale behind decisions strengthens trust. ➜Situation: Be clear about the reasoning behind key decisions, especially in high-stakes situations. ➜Script: "I want everyone to understand why we made this decision. Here are the factors we considered and how they align with our objectives..." 5. Champion inclusivity. Engage and value all voices. ➜Why: Inclusivity ensures a sense of belonging and respect, which is foundational for trust. ➜Situation: Encourage diverse viewpoints in team discussions, ensuring everyone feels their input is valued and heard. ➜Script: Example Script: "I'd really like to hear your thoughts on this, [Name]. Your perspective is important to our team." 6. Be generous. Care for others. ➜Why: Offering support and resources to others without expecting anything in return cultivates a culture of mutual trust and respect. ➜Situation: Proactively offer assistance or share insights to help your colleagues. ➜Script: "I see you’re working on [project/task]. I have some resources from a similar project I worked on that might be helpful for you." PS: Trust Is Hard-Earned, Easily Lost, Difficult To Reestablish...Yet Absolutely Foundational. Image Credit: BetterUp . com

Most leaders communicate to inform. Great leaders communicate to build trust: 1. Transparency Blueprint When sharing information: → State what you know → Acknowledge what's unclear → Update proactively → Welcome questions Leadership should be without hidden agendas. 2. Create Commitment  Before promising: → Define specifics → Set clear timelines → Track openly → Deliver consistently Trust lives in kept promises. 3. Listening Framework During conversations: → Give full attention → Seek understanding → Check alignment → Honor silence Real influence starts with listening. 4. Truth Management When challenges arise: → Share early → Own fully → Act quickly → Learn openly Build credibility through honesty. 5. The Follow-Through Factor Every interaction: → Document clearly → Track rigorously → Close completely → Review regularly Trust isn't given. It's built one conversation at a time. Words initiate trust — Actions build it, And consistency keeps it. Ready to transform your communication impact? DM me for my framework on developing leadership that lasts.

15 Questions Thoughtful Leaders Ask to Build Trust I once believed trust was built by delivering big wins. But real trust starts with genuine curiosity and listening. Here are 15 questions that thoughtful leaders use to spark deeper connection and loyalty: 1️⃣ How are you, really? ↳ Starts with genuine care about the person. 2️⃣ What’s one small win you’re proud of this week? ↳ Brings positivity and acknowledges progress. 3️⃣ Is there anything we haven’t addressed that concerns you? ↳ Invites hidden thoughts or worries to surface. 4️⃣ What do you need from me right now? ↳ Shows willingness to support in a concrete way. 5️⃣ Where do you feel stuck? ↳ Identifies obstacles and demonstrates empathy. 6️⃣ What have you already tried? ↳ Builds on existing efforts and prevents rehashing the same solutions. 7️⃣ How can we make this process simpler? ↳ Prompts a collaborative search for more efficient approaches. 8️⃣ Who else’s perspective should we consider? ↳ Expands thinking and values diverse input. 9️⃣ Can you tell me more about how you arrived at that idea? ↳ Shows genuine interest in their thought process. 🔟 Which part of your work brings you the most energy? ↳ Helps align tasks with strengths and passion. 1️⃣1️⃣ What would success look like for you personally? ↳ Personalizes goals and respects individual definitions of success. 1️⃣2️⃣ How would you like to be recognized for your efforts? ↳ Tailors rewards to individual preferences. 1️⃣3️⃣ Who on the team deserves a shoutout this week? ↳ Fosters a culture of mutual appreciation. 1️⃣4️⃣ What’s one thing you’d change if you could? ↳ Encourages reflection on improvements or new opportunities. 1️⃣5️⃣ What’s your biggest takeaway from our conversation? ↳ Reinforces clarity, alignment, and next steps. Trust is built one genuine question at a time—when people see you care enough to truly listen. Which question will you start with today? Share below ♻️ Repost to help other leaders build genuine connections 🔔 Follow Dr. Chris Mullen for more insights on leadership and team-building

There ya have it... How much do you trust your coworkers? To foster a safe workplace, build trust with coworkers through open communication, active listening, and demonstrating reliability and care for their well-being, which encourages them to report safety concerns and contribute to a positive safety culture. 1. Open Communication and Transparency: Share information: Keep your team updated on relevant safety information, company news, and any changes that might impact their work. Encourage feedback: Create a safe space for employees to voice their opinions, concerns, and suggestions about safety practices. Be transparent about processes: Explain the reasoning behind safety protocols and procedures to build understanding and buy-in. Actively listen: Make a conscious effort to listen to your coworkers' concerns and perspectives, even if they differ from your own. 2. Building Rapport and Trust: Get to know your coworkers: Make an effort to learn about your team members' lives and interests outside of work to build rapport and a sense of connection. Show genuine care: Demonstrate that you care about their well-being and safety by actively listening to their concerns and offering support. Be approachable and reliable: Make yourself available to answer questions and offer assistance, and follow through on your commitments. Acknowledge and appreciate their efforts: Recognize and celebrate their contributions to safety, no matter how small. 3. Demonstrating Reliability and Accountability: Lead by example: Follow safety protocols and procedures yourself, and hold others accountable for doing the same. Follow through on promises: If you say you'll do something, do it, and communicate any changes or delays promptly. Take ownership of mistakes: Acknowledge and learn from errors, and take responsibility for them. Be consistent: Maintain consistent safety standards and expectations, and enforce them fairly and equitably. 4. Fostering a Positive Safety Culture: Promote a culture of safety: Make safety a top priority and encourage employees to take ownership of their own safety and the safety of others. Encourage reporting of safety issues: Create a system where employees feel comfortable reporting safety hazards or near misses without fear of retribution. Celebrate successes: Acknowledge and celebrate safety achievements and milestones to reinforce positive safety behaviors. Provide ongoing training and education: Keep employees informed about the latest safety practices and procedures.

𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐲: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 "𝐈𝐭 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫" Being genuine and true to oneself is at the core of the "It Factor." Authentic leaders inspire trust and respect because they are consistent and transparent. Authenticity fosters trust, builds strong relationships, and enhances credibility. Leaders who are authentic create a culture of openness and integrity. They encourage others to be genuine and committed by being examples. It also helps leaders navigate challenges with clarity and purpose. 𝐓𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐬 𝐖𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦𝐚: 𝐊𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐬: Identify Principles: Reflect on your core values and what matters most to you. This guides your decisions and actions. Align Actions: Ensure your actions align with your values, reinforcing authenticity. 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲: Be Honest: Share your thoughts and intentions clearly. Transparency fosters trust. Admit Mistakes: Own up to mistakes and take responsibility, showing humility and building respect. 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐕𝐮𝐥𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲: Share Personal Stories: Make yourself relatable by sharing personal experiences and challenges. Ask for Feedback: Seek regular feedback, and show a willingness to learn and improve. 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐊𝐞𝐲: Stay True to Your Word: Follow through on your commitments. Consistency reinforces integrity. Maintain Principles: Hold steadfast to your principles, especially under pressure. 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐲: Understand Perspectives: Make an effort to understand others' feelings and viewpoints. Support and Encourage: Show genuine concern for your team’s well-being and professional growth. 𝐁𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐞: Exude Confidence: Believe in your abilities and convey confidence in your decisions. Stay Humble: Recognize others' contributions and share the credit. 𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐩𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦𝐚 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐜. 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 "𝐈𝐭 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫."

⚡️I used to think credibility was the key to trust... (...now I believe it’s empathetic curiosity) ✅ Impressive titles. ✅ Flawless track records. ✅ Polished presentations. But something was missing. Real connection. Now I see it differently: Credibility opens the door. Empathetic curiosity builds the bridge. It's not about having all the answers. It's about asking better questions. Questions that make people feel seen. That invite them to share their story. That show you're genuinely interested in their perspective. Because here's what I've learned: People don't connect with your achievements. They connect with your humanity. → Your willingness to listen. → To be curious. → To admit what you don't know. That's where trust really begins. In the space between what you know and what you're eager to learn. So now, before every conversation, I remind myself: Be less Impressive. Be more Interested. It's not about diminishing your expertise. It's about creating space for others to shine. To feel heard. To feel valued. To feel understood. Because when people feel that, walls come down. Innovation flourishes. Collaboration thrives. And suddenly, you're not just exchanging information. You're building something together. That's the power of empathetic curiosity. It turns transactions into transformations. So, I'm curious:  💬 What's one question you ask to show genuine interest in someone's perspective? Share below. Let's learn from each other. 👇 #EmpathicLeadership #TrustBuilding #HumanConnection #AuthenticLeadership #CuriousLeaders #ListeningSkills #EmotionalIntelligence