ABSTRACT

In times of change, relationships and trust are strengthened or weakened. Effective leaders understand how to facilitate change so that, at the end of the change, people are still following them. Leaders can boost trust levels during times of change by understanding the change process and helping others move through the stages of change. Unfortunately, many leaders are impatient with the transition process of others. As a result, they commit several trust busters. When faced with a change, some leaders do not try to understand the thoughts and feelings of others. These leaders might tell everyone to get over it and move forward. Specific leadership skills that can boost trust during transitions are inquiry, listening, and empathy. By applying these skills, leaders can attempt to understand what others are experiencing. Probably the most difficult and least understood phase is the neutral zone.