The concept of “trust” within our workplace teams means much more than just expecting someone else on the team to get something done on time.

Healthy trust among colleagues takes time to achieve. It grows from the ups & downs of shared experiences, the willingness to connect in meaningful ways, honest on-going communication and positive, engaged collaboration that brings desired results. And the foundation is a sincere appreciation of each other, our unique differences and the acknowledgment that we each bring great value to the team effort.

So where do you stand with your team? Start with an honest self-assessment using these questions. Next, move on to soliciting input from your team. How would they answer these questions? Now you are ready to make some behavioral changes starting with simply letting others know you more.

1. Do people know you well at work?
2. Do your team members feel “safe” with you?
3. Can they be themselves, showing their vulnerabilities as well as their strengths?
4. Do they gravitate to you at work or networking events, sharing what’s important to them both professionally and personally?
5. Bottom line . . . do they “know, like and respect” you?

Give yourself time to build this relationship. It’s very subtle but very powerful. The difference between a mediocre performing team and a high performing team is all about trust.