Can I trust my team members?
This week's question from my portal “The Neagle Code: Directions for Life” comes from Isaiah.
Hi David,
I know that to grow my business I need to develop a team. I’ve never hired anyone before, and I’m really worried about trusting people with a business I’ve worked so hard to build. How much do I trust a team?
Hi Isaiah, and thanks for the question.
The concept of trust is interesting, and the more I speak to entrepreneurs, the more I see how their lack of understanding of trust leads to sabotage.
It’s one of the reasons I’ll be teaching on this topic in my new Live and Let Live Virtual Training. Trust is a huge issue because it’s not actually taught to the majority of us…especially those of us who grew up in the Middle Class.
You see, trust MUST be earned.
To trust blindly in others is sheer ignorance.
Let me explain.
When you are building a team, you have to assume the role of leader.
A good leader interviews and screens potential hires carefully and strategically.
References are always checked.
After the hire is made, the leader gives the new team member opportunities to earn the leader’s trust until they have proven to be trustworthy.
This is your business, it’s your responsibility, and I see so many entrepreneurs hand over the keys to their business to people who have not demonstrated that they can be trusted.
Do your part to make sure the team members you are bringing into your business are a good fit, and be willing to give them opportunities to showcase their gifts and earn your trust at the same time.
PS: The Neagle Code: Directions for Life is a weekly no-cost program that is open to everyone! Each week, I'll select and personally respond to one question received via the above “The Neagle Code” page that I feel in my heart will help the most people. (You may choose to remain anonymous if you wish, with our full support.) It is my deep, heartfelt intention that ~ in answering your questions ~ I may provide you with the Universal Truths that in committed application, will set you free. Simply submit YOUR burning question at: www.DavidNeagle.com/ask-david to participate.
4 comments
What wonderful advice! I agree that so many trust first, and then experience team members as disappointments when they break their trust. This idea to take time before allowing a new person to have access to everything is so key. I think it applies to all types of relationships, including the most personal. Thank you for such clear insight!
Agreed Mary, you really need to take your time with this part of your business because it is a critical piece. Too often people go in with their eyes sightly closed, just wanting someone to fill a position of need within their organization fast. The idea of bringing someone in on a trial basis allows you to see if its a good it and if its not its much easier to let them go. Remember, this is your business and you have to treat it as such.
Thank you David. This post sparked a discussion within my family, a meaningful, deep, concentrated conversation.
Glad to hear it Liz, deep and meaningful conversation is what its all about. It’s very easy to point the finger elsewhere when something doesn’t go your way, but it is the leader in those situations who can point it at himself/herself and accept responsibility. After all, they are the ones who created it in the first place.