ABSTRACT
Although providing warnings and reprimands in a large group is not an automatic trust buster, the continued practice of addressing a larger group about the problems of a few can have negative consequences for trust. Jim needed to address the problem individually with those teachers who were late. Providing group reprimands was frustrating for the other teachers because the problem was not corrected and the people engaging in the behavior were not accountable for their actions. Clarifying procedures and expectations can be acceptable in a large group if the focus is truly intended for informing and not reprimanding. Many leaders take this approach of group reprimands, hoping that the bad behavior will be stopped immediately. Even when it seems most expedient to address the misbehaviors of a few in a large group setting or in a group e-mail, reconsider. One can build trust by addressing concerns individually and using large group meetings for praise and learning.
