The quote goes ‘and the truth shall set you free’ but it omits one intertwined crucial element and that is the other ‘T-word’ Trust.

If we recall what some of the key attributes of a team are,

• Having a Common Purpose
• Accountability for individual and each other’s goals and behaviours
• Collective responsibility
• A commitment to each other’s development

Fundamental to all these attributes is a level of trust and truth.

So how is trust built up?

Trust does not happen overnight; it builds up over a period and comes as the result of cumulative experiences. There is an honesty to words spoken and individuals speak and listen to those words with limited judgement. Individuals require a feeling of being heard and seen when communicating.

One of the most underrated tools of any team, is the ability to listen to each other.

As babies we learn words and understand the meaning of things by the ability to listen. And yet as we grow into adults and as often the case at team meetings, the need to listen which was once fundamental to our development seems no longer required.

Why are we scared to speak the truth?

The nature of the human ego is to be liked by others. For many this leads to operating at a passive state rather than leaning into a more uncomfortable state where the ego is jeopardised.  In a team scenario this can manifest itself into a lack of truth amongst members in a team setting. This result of this is a lack of trust amongst team members.

What does this do for the dynamics and effectiveness of the team?

Overlooked in this scenario is that it is possible to not like what someone has to say and trust them more for being honest.

Truth is not always convenient, but once it is coming from a place where there is respect given to the individual and to the delivery of the message, trust mounts and the development opportunities from that are endless.

If you are interested in finding out more about how to propel your team to a high level of performance, contact Team Coaching Boutique® at future@teamcoachingboutique.com or call 0203 745 7737