Lead with Integrity: The Performance and Trust Connection 

Ethics Matters

Q1 2024

As I have shared before, I spend a considerable amount of time studying leadership. I read books and articles in addition to listening to podcasts. Recently, while viewing leadership discussions on YouTube, I once again became very fascinated with how trust and leadership work together. Trust is one of the most powerful components necessary for an individual to be a great leader. However, many times we overlook or forget how trust can impact a leader and the team that they are responsible for leading. 

Undoubtably, performance is a key measure of success for a leader. However, some of the greatest organizations and most successful teams value trust as much as they do performance. In fact, I could make an argument that the level of trust is a driver or key indicator for how great the performance can be or would be. I am enjoying learning about amazing teams within the Navy Seals. According to the information I read, they place equal value on trust and performance. In high-risk situations they encounter, it is extremely important for individuals to trust their leader and their other team members. The level of trust they have with each other supersedes performance when they are in critically important situations. The individual must have utmost confidence in and trust in their leader and the other team members. I contend, trusting the person next to you to do his or her assignment is critical for success in any environment. In addition, it is equally important to trust the leader’s ability to utilize the talents of the team and to motivate team members to make decisions creating opportunities for success for the team.  

We in business may not be facing life or death situations. However, the relationship between performance and trust remains the same. That same level of trust is necessary for leaders to build amongst their teams so that individual team members trust each other and trust the leadership of the organization. We deal with risks that may not be life-threatening, but can threaten our livelihood, our brand and the families we provide for through our businesses. We should make it our priority to become trusted leaders and team members.  

Another example of where I see the relationship between trust and performance is in sports. Earlier this month, I watched the Super Bowl. I was thoroughly impressed when I heard comments from team members after the game referencing the leadership from the Kansas City Chiefs’ head coach, Andy Ried, and quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. Nearly every player interviewed spoke about how they trusted the leadership of their quarterback and their coach. Even when the team was behind late in the game, they knew they would find a way to win the game, because of the confidence and trust they had in their leadership. I contend that this confidence and trust that the team members had in their leaders inspired the players to give their best. They all wanted to play their part in winning the game, and ultimately, they won.  

Ladies and gentlemen, I tell you, if performance is important to success, and we know it is, then we also must acknowledge that in a team environment, trust is also critical to help drive performance. If you are leading or influencing in any environment, please consider building a trusted relationship with those around you. There is truly power to drive performance through trust. As always, lead with integrity.

Lead with Integrity,
Alfonzo Alexander