You're a leader in a new team. How can you use interpersonal skills to build trust and respect?

1 Communicate clearly and openly

One of the most important interpersonal skills for a leader is communication. You need to communicate your vision, goals, expectations, and feedback to your team clearly and openly. Avoid ambiguity, jargon, and assumptions. Use different channels and formats to suit your audience and message. Listen actively and empathetically to your team's ideas, concerns, and feedback. Encourage dialogue and collaboration. By communicating effectively, you can build trust and respect with your team and foster a positive and productive work environment.

4 Respect diversity and inclusion

A fourth interpersonal skill that can help you build trust and respect with your team is respecting diversity and inclusion. Diversity and inclusion are not only about complying with laws and policies, but also about embracing and valuing the differences and similarities among your team members. As a leader, you need to respect diversity and inclusion by treating everyone fairly and equally, avoiding stereotypes and biases, and promoting a culture of respect and belonging. You need to acknowledge and appreciate the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of your team members, and leverage their strengths and talents. You need to create a safe and supportive space for your team members to express themselves, learn from each other, and collaborate effectively. By respecting diversity and inclusion, you can show your team that you care about them as individuals and as a group.

5 Lead by example

A fifth interpersonal skill that can help you build trust and respect with your team is leading by example. Leading by example means that you demonstrate the behaviors, attitudes, and values that you expect from your team. You need to lead by example by being professional, ethical, and responsible. You need to show commitment, enthusiasm, and initiative. You need to follow the rules, meet the standards, and deliver the results. You need to support, coach, and mentor your team. You need to be a role model and an inspiration for your team. By leading by example, you can show your team that you are a credible, reliable, and respectful leader.

6 Resolve conflicts constructively

A sixth interpersonal skill that can help you build trust and respect with your team is resolving conflicts constructively. Conflicts are inevitable in any team, but they can also be opportunities for learning and improvement. As a leader, you need to resolve conflicts constructively by addressing them promptly, calmly, and respectfully. You need to listen to both sides of the story, understand the root causes and the interests of the parties involved, and facilitate a dialogue and a solution. You need to avoid taking sides, blaming, or escalating the situation. You need to focus on the facts, the goals, and the common ground. You need to encourage feedback, compromise, and cooperation. By resolving conflicts constructively, you can show your team that you are a fair, respectful, and problem-solving leader.