How to Cultivate Trust, Respect, and Influence as a New Team Leader

Everyone in the workforce probably has their own idea of what makes a great team leader. However, this may conflict with what some experienced leaders in business and other industries may think. For example, some business veterans may think that great leadership is solely reflected in strong numbers. 

That said, the people who work for them may beg to differ, especially when working in a negative environment. A positive, transparent, and collaborative environment can yield great results, and that’s what it takes to be a great leader. Follow along as we explore how to instill trust and respect as a new team leader. 

Gaining Respect Through Positive Leadership

Leading a team isn’t easy, but it’s always rewarding if you do it the right way. Unlike many other things, there’s only one “right way” to lead a team, at least in most industries. That’s because the ideal leader must simultaneously set a great example, foster positivity, and yield great results. 

Great numbers don’t solely determine a great leader. Sure, you can get great results using negative reinforcement in some cases, but that won’t garner trust and respect. 

Having a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) may help, but successfully leading a team requires practice and experience. You can cultivate trust, respect, and meaningful influence as a leader if you keep a few things in mind, such as:

1. Set a Strong Example

A team is only as strong as its leader, whether it be in business, finance, or the healthcare industry. Naturally, leaders expect their teams to demonstrate many of the same qualities that they see in themselves. However, this will only manifest itself if you exhibit what you think it takes to be productive and professional.

For example, you can’t get too disappointed if your team struggles to achieve goals and act professionally if you have the same shortcomings. One great way to set a strong example is to show how you’ve done much of the same work you expect them to do. This can include offering examples of how you overcame obstacles and completed tasks. 

Don’t hesitate to help your team when they’re struggling, as that’s more effective than negative reinforcement. It’s also important to be vulnerable when it’s appropriate, as this can help your team identify with you and trust you. Your actions should always mirror your words.  

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2. Foster a Collaborative Environment

It’s hard to feel like you’re part of a team if positive collaboration isn’t encouraged. Unfortunately, many people can point to examples of team leaders who expected collaboration but encouraged it using negative methods. However, a great leader can foster positive collaboration by setting a great example and clearly defining expectations. 

One great way to do this is to schedule weekly check-ins to define goals and examine progress. Whether it’s in-person or over a video call, such meetings can ensure everyone is on the same page. Positive reinforcement and realistic expectations can show the team that you value their work.

Everyone should feel free to express their concerns and contribute ideas in the name of progress. Not only will this help your team hit deadlines, but it will also foster trust and respect.  

3. Enable the Team

Many team leaders understandably try to avoid overwhelming their staff and overburdening them with too much responsibility. However, this can sometimes result in a team that feels held back and unproductive. You must delegate some tasks and give your team room to excel professionally as a group.

Doing so will ensure that they can perform at full capacity and maintain a consistent schedule. It can also give you time and space to focus on administrative and managerial tasks. Naturally, you must still maintain a hands-on approach, so the team doesn’t feel like you made them work and then backed off.  

Of course, you must be careful not to overload your team, which can ultimately hinder progress. Be realistic about your expectations and what everyone can do given their current workload and schedules. Giving the team autonomy can make them feel valued, respected, and productive. 

4. Hear People Out

You’re not alone if you’ve ever been a part of a team, but it didn’t feel that way. That sense of disconnection often occurs when people feel misunderstood, unheard, and undervalued. As a leader, you must strive to ensure your team feels heard and understood. 

The best way to do this is to foster an environment where feedback and expression are encouraged. Ideally, each team member should feel comfortable enough to express their concerns and ask questions when appropriate. You can encourage this by letting your team know that you value their opinions and want them to speak up.

This also has a lot to do with your actions, as people will hesitate to approach you if your demeanor discourages communication. Make yourself as approachable as possible, so people are comfortable enough to voice their concerns and ask questions.  

5. Prioritize Transparency

Mystery and unknowns aren’t conducive to a positive, productive work environment. This is true whether you’re dealing with scheduling, fiscal information, or your expectations. It’s hard to trust a leader if they intentionally withhold a lot of important information. 

You can instill good faith in your team by prioritizing transparency with your words and actions. Doing so will show your team that you trust them, value their time, and have their best interests in mind. You don’t need to pull the curtain back all the way, but you should do so when it’s appropriate. 

Not only will this make your team feel valued, but it can also improve their work performance. Nobody can read your mind, but showing them how you feel and what you expect can help them do their job. This is important whether you’re a nurse leader or a chief executive officer. 

A Great Leader is Only as Strong as Their Team

Behind every great leader is a strong team that respects them, and that sometimes gets confused. However, it doesn’t matter how “strong” you lead a team if they don’t feel trusted, respected, and valued. Offer transparency, vulnerability, and faith in your team, and it will pay off in a great performance that reflects on you.