Build Trust & Connection
Build Trust & Connection
- Listen Non-judgmentally: True connection starts with listening. Accept others’ perspectives as valid, even if you disagree. Use active listening skills—eye contact, open body language, and verbal affirmations like “I see” or “Yes.”
- Offer Support & Reassurance: Sometimes, silence is okay. Avoid rushing to fill awkward pauses or focusing only on the “bright side.” Just being present can be the greatest gift.
- Share Observations, Not Judgements: Express what you notice without criticism. This opens the door to honest discussion and minimizes misunderstandings.
Offer Empathy & Compassion
Empathy means listening, holding space, and communicating the healing message: “You’re not alone.” Build positive relationships by demonstrating concern and compassion for others’ experiences.
How to Show Empathy:
- Provide respectful eye contact and avoid interrupting.
- Allow others to express themselves without criticism.
- Allow others to express themselves without criticism.
- Thank colleagues for trusting and sharing with you.
Own Your Mistakes & Provide a Sincere Apology
Everyone makes mistakes. What matters is how you respond.
- Recognize your mistake: See it as a learning opportunity, not a flaw.
- Apologize sincerely: Use “I” statements, keep it brief, and focus on your actions.
- Make amends: Communicate openly and listen to the other person’s concerns as you rebuild trust.
A genuine apology validates the other person’s feelings and shows your commitment to doing better.
Practical Steps for Positive Work Interactions
- Avoid assumptions: Don’t presume you know others’ intentions.
- Fact-check your understanding: Be curious and ask clarifying questions.
- Maintain positive body language: Adjust for cultural differences and strive for openness.
Resources
Health Promotion and Wellness Webinar
Watch the AZ Blue Health Promotion and Wellness webinar on building trust and connection.Workplace Mental Health & Well-Being
Read more about health and well-being in the workplace: Workplace Mental Health & Well-Being - Current Priorities of the U.S. Surgeon General.
5 Powerful Strategies To Build Trust In The Workplace (Forbes)
Why Work Schedule Flexibility Is Here to Stay (shrm.org)
How to Be Transparent in the Workplace | Indeed.com
Conversations on Leadership with Ken Blanchard (howwelead.org)
Foster Autonomy in the Workplace to Enhance Team Performance
Trust from Brene Brown
5 Ways Managers Can Build Trust with Teams
Myers-Briggs on Building Better Teams by Building Trust
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People® Habit 4
https://www.franklincovey.com/the-7-habits/
Melhem, Y & Al Qudah, MF (2019). Work Engagement: Trust and Respect to Engage Your People. Indian Journal of Science and Technology, 12 (17), 1 – 13. 10.17485/ijst/2019/v12i17/144033.
Disclaimer: Members should always consult with their healthcare providers regarding medical care or treatment, as recommendations, services or resources are not a substitute for the advice or recommendation of a member’s physician or healthcare provider. Prioritizing your mental health is important to your overall health. Mental health conditions affect one in five Americans each year. If you, or someone you know, is in crisis or needs immediate assistance, please call 911 immediately. If you feel like you need help or know someone who might be showing signs of a mental health crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline now at 1-800-273-8255 or dial 988 or Text HELLO to 741741 (The Crisis Text Line). Any websites, Apps, books, etc. presented here do not constitute an endorsement or coverage by the AZ Blue Commercial business.

