She was worried about me making the trip in the rain especially because I had never been to that part of the country before. Maybe you should wait till it all clears out and then I wouldn’t have to worry about you getting lost in this weather, she said.
Don’t worry Marjorie, I trust my GPS. I said as I grabbed the car keys and headed out the back door towards the car.
I made it there and back but only because I followed every direction the GPS lady gave me to the “t.” As I pulled into the garage upon my return, the brand bright smile on my host’s face told me how thankful she was that I had made it back safely. I told you my gps is trustworthy, I said and we both ran into each other’s arms for a warm hug. I am sure you get where I am going with this. Unlike the GPS which is automatically rendered trustworthy by advances in technology to people like me whose journey through life often takes them on many paths that they have never traveled before, you and I as leaders have a monumental task before us. We must earn the trust of those we lead.
In every organization, people are always following someone. Many leaders make the mistake of assuming that their people are following them but that is not always the case. Because people can only follow a leader they trust, you and I cannot afford to take trust lightly.
So, the big question is are you a trustable leader? When your people look at you, do they see someone they can obey when they don’t know their way from point A to point B?
If they don’t trust you, they won’t follow you. It is that simple!
If you are interested in exploring issues of trust in leadership, leave your name and email in the comments section and I will point you in the direction of some great resources. Trust Matters!
Journey with Della 