Teams have never been more important in business. But with the demands and complexities of today’s work environment—not to mention the challenges of working with global, remote or regularly changing team members—working in a team isn’t always easy.
A great team is a “brain trust” of diverse thinkers, one that’s greater than the sum of its parts. They’re collaborators you can count on to bring new perspectives to the table, listen to and value your ideas, and stay accountable to common goals, especially when the pressure heats up.
How do you build trust in a team? Read on for practical strategies. We’ll also provide a printable infographic that you can use as your very own blueprint to help you build your own team brain trust.
Why higher team trust equals higher team performance (and how to achieve it)
With modern businesses embracing flatter organisational structures, solving complex problems has become a team sport—and teams have never been more essential. Today’s workforce is driven by collaboration, with millennial and Gen Z employees thriving on connection and shared experiences.
But the workplace has evolved. The rise of hybrid models, where freelancers and contractors work alongside full-time employees, has introduced a new layer of diversity to teams. Add in global and virtual collaboration, and you’ve got teams that often operate across time zones—sometimes without ever meeting face-to-face. The challenge? Building strong, connected teams in this dynamic, dispersed environment.
The teams that consistently perform well under these circumstances have one thing in common:
High levels of trust
When team members trust one another, something magical happens. They:
- Share their unique talents and perspectives openly.
- Embrace diverse ideas and actively collaborate.
- Handle disagreements constructively, focusing on solutions over conflicts.
- Commit to collective goals rather than pursuing personal agendas.
- Reduce the energy wasted on defensiveness or suspicion.
What are the common barriers to building trust in teams?
1. Trust means different things to different people
Team members often have varying perceptions of trust. For some, it’s about reliability and keeping promises, while for others, it’s about emotional safety and openness. These differences can create misunderstandings and friction.
2. Fear of vulnerability
Sharing ideas or admitting mistakes can feel risky, especially in competitive or high-stakes environments. This reluctance to share honestly or admit mistakes can stifle communication and trust.
3. Judgment of diverse thinkers
Team members who approach problems differently may face criticism, leading to disengagement.
4. Misaligned goals
Without clear objectives, team members may focus on individual priorities, creating a perception of disconnection.
5. Stressful environments
Pressure-packed projects can amplify tensions, eroding trust instead of building it.
4 steps to build trust with your team
Step 1: Assess your team’s thinking styles
Understanding how your team members think is the first step in building trust.
- Identify each member’s cognitive preferences and problem-solving styles.
- Highlight how diverse perspectives enhance collaboration.
- Discuss what trust means to each individual and align expectations.
The HBDI® assessment gives meaningful insights into team dynamics.
Step 2: Articulate goals and ensure alignment
Clarity is key to trust. Misaligned objectives create confusion and mistrust.
- Clearly define team goals and milestones.
- Regularly check that everyone is on the same page.
- Foster an open dialogue to address uncertainties.
Example: During project kickoff meetings, encourage each team member to voice their understanding of the goals to uncover any misalignment early.
Leaders can set the tone by modelling vulnerability—sharing challenges or mistakes openly. This approach encourages others to feel safe doing the same.
Step 3: Build processes for collaboration
Establish frameworks to make trust part of daily operations.
- Develop a dashboard to track progress on goals.
- Assign roles that leverage individual strengths.
- Provide tools for communication, conflict resolution, and decision-making.
Action Plan: Use project management tools to increase transparency and accountability.
Step 4: Foster connection and engagement
Relationships are the bedrock of trust. Invest time in building rapport and keeping communication channels open.
- Schedule regular check-ins to discuss challenges and successes.
- Create space for informal interactions (virtual coffee chats, team-building exercises).
- Reassess dynamics when adding new members to the team.
Fun Idea: Incorporate “team fun breaks” like trivia games or wellness sessions to reduce stress and build camaraderie.
Download our free brain trust blueprint infographic
Looking for a winning way to build trust in your team? Download our free brain trust blueprint.
Trust is your competitive advantage
In 2025 and beyond, trust isn’t just a feel-good concept—it’s a strategic asset. When your team trusts each other, they’re equipped to tackle challenges, innovate under pressure, and exceed expectations.
Investing in trust means investing in the future of your business. Start building your brain trust today, and watch your team thrive.
Completing the HBDI® assessment provides insights into how your team members think, communicate, and approach challenges. Teams that leverage this understanding build trust more effectively, enhance collaboration, and achieve sustainable success.
The HBDI® is your gateway to building a high-trust, high-performance team. To discover how Whole Brain® Thinking can transform your team dynamics and build trust, get in touch with Herrmann today.
