Starting a new job is exciting. But figuring out who to trust? That’s where things get tricky.
You can’t just walk in and trust everyone. Trust takes time, strategy, and some serious discernment. So, let’s make this simple. Here’s how to navigate it without getting burned.
1. Know the Culture Before Anything Else
Before you start deciding who’s trustworthy, you need to understand the culture. Every place has its own version of the way we do things around here—some places are open and collaborative, others more about survival. Your job is to get the lay of the land and see how trust plays out. Who’s talking openly? Who’s keeping things close to the chest? This will give clues about the norms, values and underlying assumptions of your new workplace.
Recently, my client quietly exited a toxic environment. He was shocked when his boss made difficult situations worse by refusing to talk about them. It took him too long to realise that his coworkers weren’t his allies. When he’d started, he trusted everyone. A nice quality at face value. But naïve. He hadn’t taken the time to work out the culture before anything else and he paid the price. He’s started a new job recently, and while he’d prefer to just trust everyone, he’s being smarter about it this time.
2. Listen First, Talk Later
Like my client, you’re new. Use that to your advantage. Listen more than you speak. People will show you who they are—you just need to pay attention. Trust doesn’t happen on day one. It’s built over time. If you can keep your mouth shut and your ears open, you’ll spot the trustworthy ones faster than you think.
Leaders often feel the pressure to assert themselves, to “make a statement.” But the reality is, the best leaders are those who listen first. You’re gathering information, not just making an impression. Trust the process.
3. Start By Giving
If you want trust, you have to give. It’s not about waiting for someone to trust you first—it’s about showing you’re in it for the right reasons. Offer value, share your expertise, be helpful. Trust doesn’t come from taking. It comes from putting something real out there.
People are more likely to trust you when they see that you’re adding value without expecting anything in return. Small acts of generosity build trust—whether it’s sharing information, solving a problem, or offering a hand when things are tough.
And don’t forget people get lonely at work too. Asking someone to join you for a walk, or a coffee or even lunch can be the kindest gesture and mean more than you’d even know.
4. Be Consistent—That’s How Trust Sticks
It’s not flashy, but it works. Do what you say you’re going to do. Show up when you say you will. This is how you build a reputation as someone others can rely on. Trust isn’t built on promises; it’s built on actions.
Consistency is key. Leaders who are reliable and steady—who can be counted on, especially in times of uncertainty—are the ones who win the trust of their teams.
5. Watch Out for the White Ants
There’s always someone who plays the game by quietly undermining others. They don’t show their cards right away but trust your instincts. If someone’s always subtly stirring things up, stay alert. You don’t need to confront them but be careful where you invest your trust.
I’ve seen this happen with too many clients: put at risk by the “white ants” who work in the background, slowly eating away others’ trust and loyalty in you. As a leader, you can’t afford to ignore these behaviors. If you let them slide, you’re inviting toxicity into your culture. And if you’re not careful, you’ll become a target too.
6. Trust is a Long-Term Play
This isn’t a race. Building trust takes time, and that’s exactly how it should be. People will step up and show you they’re in it for the long haul, not just the quick wins at anyone’s expense.
The long-term impact of trust is massive. It’s what allows you to lead through change, to get buy-in for your vision, and to rally people around a common purpose. For senior leaders, trust is the foundation of everything—strategy, execution, and growth.
Now, What’s your First Step?
You’ve got the tools to start building trust—strategically and authentically. So, what’s the first thing you’ll do? Take a moment and think: Who in your new role can you reach out to today to start that process? It doesn’t need to be complicated. A coffee, a quick check-in, or even just a genuine offer to help can make all the difference.
Trust builds one conversation at a time, one action at a time. What will yours be?
Image by Pixabay
