What are the best ways to build trust with your choir performers?

1 Show respect and appreciation

One of the easiest and most effective ways to build trust with your choir performers is to show them respect and appreciation. Respect their time, opinions, talents, and challenges. Appreciate their efforts, achievements, and feedback. Communicate clearly and politely, and avoid criticism, sarcasm, or favoritism. Acknowledge their individual and collective contributions, and celebrate their successes. By showing respect and appreciation, you will create a positive and supportive atmosphere that fosters trust and loyalty.

2 Listen and learn

Another way to build trust with your choir performers is to listen and learn from them. Listen to their ideas, suggestions, concerns, and questions. Learn about their goals, interests, strengths, and weaknesses. Ask for their input, feedback, and opinions. Be open-minded, flexible, and willing to adapt. Show them that you value their perspectives and experiences, and that you are ready to learn from them as well as teach them. By listening and learning, you will demonstrate your genuine interest and care for your singers, and you will gain their trust and respect.

3 Share your vision and passion

A third way to build trust with your choir performers is to share your vision and passion for the music. Share your goals, expectations, and plans for the choir. Explain your artistic choices, methods, and techniques. Express your enthusiasm, excitement, and joy for singing. Inspire them with your examples, stories, and insights. Show them that you have a clear and compelling vision for the choir, and that you are passionate about helping them achieve it. By sharing your vision and passion, you will motivate them to follow your lead and trust your guidance.

4 Encourage and empower

A fourth way to build trust with your choir performers is to encourage and empower them. Encourage them to try new things, take risks, and challenge themselves. Empower them to make decisions, solve problems, and take ownership of their performance. Provide them with constructive feedback, guidance, and support. Recognize their potential, and help them grow and improve. Show them that you believe in them, and that you want them to succeed. By encouraging and empowering them, you will boost their confidence and trust in themselves and in you.

5 Be consistent and reliable

A fifth way to build trust with your choir performers is to be consistent and reliable. Be consistent in your words, actions, and expectations. Be reliable in your attendance, preparation, and delivery. Follow through on your promises, commitments, and responsibilities. Be honest, transparent, and accountable. Show them that you are dependable, trustworthy, and professional. By being consistent and reliable, you will earn their trust and credibility.

6 Have fun and connect

A sixth way to build trust with your choir performers is to have fun and connect with them. Have fun by adding some humor, games, and activities to your rehearsals and performances. Connect with them by showing interest in their lives, hobbies, and passions. Share some of your personal stories, experiences, and emotions. Be friendly, approachable, and empathetic. Show them that you are not only their coach, but also their colleague and friend. By having fun and connecting with them, you will create a bond of trust and friendship that will enhance your choir's performance.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?