We Do Have a Deficit of Trust

“We have a deficit of Trust!” ~ President Barack Obama, January 27, 2010, State of the Union Address

He nailed it. It is all about trust in our country. No one knows whom to trust so we trust no one. We hang on to what is comfortable, find fault, and criticize change…which only exacerbates the eroding of trust.

So, the problem has been identified. Trust IS the issue. Now what can be done about it? Where does that lack of trust lie? Is it in the lack of getting results to turn the economy around quickly; or the lack of integrity in behaviors of our members of Congress. We, the citizens, elected them to be good stewards of our resources and be there for the country… but in reality they are demonstrating behaviors that are self-serving and non-collaborative. Never, in my 60+ years on this planet, have I observed such vitriolic polarization at a time when the world needs cohesive leadership. That means our leaders have to rise above the political fray and do what is right.

Or is it lack of having clear, open communication of what is really going on with AIG, Wall Street, etc. Or, the lack of being accountable for what has pulled down our economy, our leadership presence in the world, our caring about each other?

The word Trust conjures up many issues. How do we ever zero in on how to begin to resurrect trust? Once trust has been eroded, it takes committed steps to build it back. We need to have a common language that helps all of us identify the highest priorities, eliminate character assassinations and move forward.

Thank you, Mr. President, for nailing the issue. We are operating in a deficit. Now let’s identify our highest priorities and work together putting the needs of the people first in order to have those “Trust Talks” that will steady the course and move our country forward.

Cynthia Olmstead, President, TrustWorks Group, Inc.

Buildilng Trust with Boards of Directors

Yesterday, I experienced a wonderful example of how trust can permeate through a board of directors to help them move to new levels. Our board is at a juncture knowing that the organization needs to move forward but feeling very comfortable with where we are. The economy has forced us, however, to have to look at doing business differently thus causing angst among some of our board members who do not want to change. The setting yesterday encouraged trust because:

•  there was open, candid dialogue without condemnation or critiquing
•  everyone knew what our desired outcome was for the retreat, e.g. to define strategies to move the organization forward
•  respect for a variety of opinions as each one brings a different perspective.

Those of us who were quasi reluctant about giving up a full 6 hour day to “reteat” yet again, came away seeing true value in our efforts, a clearly defined action plan for moving forward, and a real sense of belonging and understanding of each other. It was time well spent…..and we all are excited about our next meeting.  Trust was evident!!!