A dozen years ago, the days were dark at our company. People were afraid to make mistakes; they gossiped; they succumbed to office politics. Turnover was high.

Then, our culture changed. Staff stayed in their jobs much longer. Former employees tried to come back. Fear no longer characterized the environment.

How did this happen?

I believe the culture of our company was transformed by one thing: Trust.

We intentionally encouraged people to trust each other. We had a higher tolerance for mistakes. We ended the tenure of chronically negative people.

We brought in new leadership. We reduced the number and duration of large meetings. Exemplary employees were promoted to positions of greater responsibility.

Even if your corporate culture is healthy, could it use more trust-building?

While our cultures will never be perfect, the power of trust can transform them into spaces where people love to build their careers and dreams.

Which, of course, is what helps build companies.

Blessings as you lead,

Tom Harper
Founder, BiblicalLeadership.com
LinkedIn profile | Books

Like a snow-cooled drink at harvest time is a trustworthy messenger to the one who sends him….
—Prov. 25:13a