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Creating a Culture of Trust and Connection in Business

Did you know that a culture of trust and connection is key to a thriving business or workplace? I’ve noticed over the years that many work environments are actually fueled by fear and most of us have experienced this to some level. Sometimes, it’s because productivity and results are the highest priority in the organization, and this shapes an atmosphere based on acceptance through performance. Other times, specific relationships can breed fear into us. The good news is, perfect love casts out fear and we can all positively impact our work culture (1 John 4:18).

In an environment where productivity and results are the highest priority, fear is a problem because fear is connected to punishment. If it’s our performance that is being honored over who we are, we may be afraid of feedback or negative consequences. Very few people thrive in an environment where fear and punishment are the motivators. As fear grows, we tend to retreat, isolate and hide instead of perform well, thrive and increase. We’re less likely to be open to feedback or resolve issues that need attention.

To counteract a culture of fear in the workplace, we need to create a culture that values connection and trust.  If we want our business or workplace to thrive, our focus must be on building healthy relationships.

I know of a retail business that transformed their culture from fear to one of trust and connection. The original owners of this business had believed their employees were regularly stealing from them and their spoken or implied accusation had bred a culture of fear. As a result, many people left and those who remained were not enjoying their work. This culture carried over to how they interacted with the customers. When new owners took over the business, they made it their priority to communicate a fundamental value for relationship to their employees. One of the ways they did this was to ask the employees how they could improve the company. By demonstrating a sense of value for their employees, the culture of fear was replaced by a culture of trust, acceptance and connection. In this culture, everyone felt able to contribute and bring their strengths. Productivity, performance and sales flourished and the company grew exponentially. 

As we value relationships and trust perfect love to cast out fear, each one of us has the opportunity to contribute to building a culture where trust and connection are the motivators instead of fear, and this is just as important in the workplace as anywhere else.

6 responses to “Creating a Culture of Trust and Connection in Business

  1. So good! I work in an environment where I deal with contractors, maintenance techs, end-users and regular office employees. The culture on site is very toxic, from vulgar language too aggressive communication to yelling and accusations. I work as an embedded contractor and desire to see this workplace improve its culture. So not having much influence outside of my own actions do you have any recommendations on how to move the needle towards an Honoring culture.
    Loved Business of Honor! Much needed!

    1. Hey Ryan – thanks for sharing! Sorry to hear that you are experiencing challenges in your work culture. That’s so great that you are desiring to see your workplace improve it’s culture. Have you checked out some of my other blogs? 9 Ways to Create a Powerful and Successful Team Culture could be helpful and I also recommend the Boundaries book by Dr Cloud & Townsend. So glad you loved Business of Honor. Keep up the good work!

  2. This is a powerful statement, “everyone felt able to contribute and bring their strengths”. It is powerful when owners, managers, execs demonstrate (not just say) they value their employees contributions. Listening to improvement suggestions is a great way to demonstrate this value. Many corporations state and define many values to help guide the corporate culture. However, this article makes an important point how important it is to discover ways to demonstrate these values foster the desired culture and then the employees begin to believe it.

  3. Good truth that doubles for healthy relationships and marriages as well. As we are just getting ready to launch, I’m stashing all these nuggets away for our future growth!

    Thanks

    1. That’s so great Glen, thank you! You’re right – this applies to all teams (including marriage yes!) and indeed all relationships. So glad you found it helpful! I so appreciate your feedback. Blessings with your launch!

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