What actually builds trust?

What can you actually *do* to build trust as a leader?

Last week I wrote about the shift from being a trusted advisor to being a trusted leader. It is a move many senior professionals face, particularly in law and other expert-driven fields.

It’s one thing to understand the concept, but it’s another thing entirely to know what to actually do. A lot of leaders work harder on the credibility part of the trust equation, doubling down on showing everyone how much they know. Ironically, this can actually *undermine* trust!

Inside organisations, trust is not built on expertise alone. It is built through consistent, observable behaviours. And often, it is the smallest ones that carry the most weight.

Here are 5 things trusted leaders actually do:

1. They walk the talk.

Nothing destroys trust faster than your leader saying lofty things about valuing honesty and integrity while stabbing you or someone else in the back. Trusted leaders don’t just spout the organisation’s values, they model them. They meet deadlines, show up prepared, follow through, and take responsibility when they get it wrong. If they ask others to act with integrity, openness or urgency, they hold themselves to the same standard. They’re steady (not robotic), so people know what version of them they will get. That kind of emotional predictability becomes a quiet foundation for trust, especially in high-pressure settings.

2. They talk the walk.

Trusted leaders take time to talk with people, ask questions and actually listen. This shows up in their calendars. In busy, driven environments, time to talk – and listen deeply - can be the first thing to go, but it is often the very thing that makes people feel seen, safe and willing to contribute more.

3. Hello, elephant! They name the hard things.

Whether it’s a shift in strategy, a conflict, or a team dynamic no one is acknowledging, trusted leaders do not avoid the difficult conversations. They raise issues early and with care, and they create space for others to respond.

4. They admit what they don’t know.

Being trusted definitely does not mean having all the answers all the time. Trusted leaders are confident enough to say, “I don’t know yet,” or “What do you think we should do?” It shows humility and builds safety.

5. They let others shine.

Trusted leaders make space for others to contribute and grow. They give credit, elevate different perspectives, and share the stage. It is amazing to me how many leaders still think that squashing others down makes them look good. No! Superstar leaders have a team of shining superstars around them – isn’t that obvious?!

Trust in leadership is not just a vibe. It is a set of repeated, observable actions and decisions that signal to your team: you matter, I mean what I say, and you can count on me.

If you are thinking about how trust is built, or quietly eroded, in your leadership, I work with senior professionals on exactly that. Get in touch if a conversation would help.

Until next week, take care of yourself and others

Madeleine

I help accomplished professionals untangle difficult career questions so they can thrive in work and life.

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