In 30 seconds
- Trust lets people share problems early and ask for help.
- It grows through reliability, honesty and care.
- Absence of trust is the root team dysfunction in Lencioni's model.
Why it matters
Agile depends on transparency, shared ownership and honest feedback. Patrick Lencioni's The Five Dysfunctions of a Team places absence of trust at the base of all other team problems.
How it's built
- Doing what you said you'd do
- Admitting mistakes and not knowing
- Giving others credit
- Showing interest in people, not just tasks
How it's broken, and rebuilt
Trust breaks through blame, hidden agendas or broken commitments. Rebuild it by naming the breach, taking responsibility, and showing consistent behaviour over time. Working agreements and psychological safety help.
Myth vs reality
Myth · Trust means never checking work.
Reality · Reviews and tests are compatible with trust.
Myth · Trust has to be earned before giving it.
Reality · Extending some trust first often starts the cycle.
Myth · Trust is personal, not organizational.
Reality · Systems and incentives affect trust too.
FAQ
How do new teams build trust quickly?
Share personal histories and work styles early.
Can trust exist in remote teams?
Yes, with regular video contact and reliability.
How do leaders show trust?
By delegating real decisions and not micromanaging.