The economy, politics, crime, families, and workplace are but a few places where the public turns in trying times.  This time in history is similar to the same anxieties leading to our indepence.  The very idea our founding fathers used to bring about independence - TRUST.

In this and continuing articles I hope to generate ideas and dialogue toward improved trust; building on what we have/need.  While my writing centers around the workplace, with a little imagination I hope you can translate the points into your everyday lives.

At this point I should probably recognize my basis for discussions involves two books:

Robert Bruce Shaw's "Trust in the Balance: Building Successful Organizations on Results, Integrity, and Concern"

A new publication offered by Stephen M.R. Covey "The Speed of Trust: The One Thing That Changes Everything"

As I discover other articles or publications relevant to the workplace I will point to their location, but in the interest of copyright issues, not provide copies.

So what is trust?  How is it defined?

Shaw provided a working definition. Trust: Belief that those on whom we depend will meet our expectations of them.

At the very least this definition provides a discussion point because expectations can be ambiguous.  In the workplace, expectations should not be ambiguous and if they are then we have more interest in building trust.

Thoughts?  Shoot them at me.  This will get interesting...trust me!