Trust is one of the noblest of human emotions. It is the foundation of business relationships and one of the most powerful factors you can use to cultivate your work team and build client loyalty. But, in a time when Bernie Madoff, Tyco and Enron have become household names; one wonders, does trust still exist?

Absolutely. Organizations that flourish over the long run commit to fundamental integrity in their products, services, processes and people. They “walk the talk,” even in tough times. They hold their leaders and employees accountable for modeling ethical business practices in every aspect of their work. They keep their promises and follow through on commitments.

What leaders fail to realize is the power behind being perceived as having integrity and being trustworthy. These perceptions truly do impact business results. Yet, often our behavior as leaders drives just the opposite. Trusted leaders get many rewards: engaged employees, retention of top talent, positive work culture and—most important—results.

Why is it that so few leaders realize the power of integrity and trust as business tools? As a leader, where do you stand? Here are some of the warning signs that trust is an issue in your organization:

An active, inaccurate grapevine.
Elaborate approval processes.
Low initiative.
High turnover.
A high fear factor among employees.
Turf wars.
Defensiveness.

When trust is absent, relationships are characterized by an adversarial attitude: me vs. you; us vs. them. With these types of relationships, there are deep and hidden animosities, rather than goodwill. Trust in organizational strategies and top management is the most critical component in creating commitment toward a common goal. Simple tips and a commitment to building trust is all you need to get started. Below are basic tips for building trust with employees and clients/ customers.

Manager-Employee Relationship:
Research consistently reports that employees have a greater level of trust in their immediate supervisor than any other management level in the firm. It is important that leaders:

1. make sure their words are consistent with their actions (more walking the talk).
2. show confidence and faith in their direct reports.

Business-Client Relationship:
Increasing trust with in your market is the route to company growth. The more reliable and credible your marketing and customer service messages are, the more loyal your customer base will be.

1. Strive for transparency. In other words, communicate honestly and openly in all messages.
2. If a crisis or problem arises, step up and take responsibility. Always welcome and respond to customer complaints and input.
3. Establish two-way communication with your market via discussion forums and other web enabled media.

If you are a leader today pressured to get results, remember that what you say, what you do, what you mean and how you are perceived might have the greatest impact on the success of your company. Trusted leaders get many rewards: engaged employees, retention of top talent, positive work culture and more business. Investing in trust pays dividends every time.