Trust isn’t given—it’s earned through genuine, purposeful connections. 

Leaders who take the time to connect meaningfully build teams grounded in respect, open communication, and shared goals. As Ben Stein said, “Personal relationships are the fertile soil from which all advancement, all success, all achievement in real life grows.” In every professional setting, the most impactful leaders build authentic relationships that enable growth, both individually and collectively.

My colleague, Briana, exemplifies this approach. She’s cultivated genuine relationships with everyone in the lab, even those with whom she occasionally disagrees. She listens with empathy, offers encouragement, and provides honest feedback. Because her actions come from a place of genuine respect and a desire to help others grow, her feedback resonates. We trust her guidance, knowing it’s always focused on our improvement, and that trust enhances her credibility and personal success.

“Personal relationships are the fertile soil from which all advancement, all success, all achievement in real life grows.”

Ben Stein

So, how can we connect with purpose and lead our teams to higher levels of engagement and achievement?

Listen to Understand, Not Just to Respond  

One of the simplest, yet most overlooked, ways to connect with others is through active listening. When we listen without judgment or an agenda, we signal to our team members that we value their perspectives. This understanding builds trust and gives us insight into what drives each person, fostering more profound, purpose-driven relationships.

Reflect: How well are you listening to understand your team’s needs and motivations, rather than preparing your response?

Show Appreciation with Intention  

Taking time to express genuine appreciation creates bonds that foster loyalty and inspire greater engagement. A simple “thank you” or acknowledgment of a job well done strengthens relationships and can completely shift a team’s culture. Leaders who routinely show appreciation motivate others to bring their best selves to work. They help people feel part of a meaningful and supportive environment.

Take Action: What intentional actions can you take today to recognize the unique contributions of each person on your team?

Speak with Empathy and Honesty  

Offering feedback with empathy is one of the highest forms of respect. When feedback is constructive and focused on growth, it becomes a powerful tool for building trust. Team members who feel genuinely supported are more receptive to change and willing to give their best. Empathetic honesty inspires others to see feedback as a pathway to improvement rather than criticism.

Reflect: When was the last time you delivered feedback that balanced honesty with empathy?

Invest in Relationships, Not Just Transactions  

True connections are never transactional; they’re transformational. Leaders who prioritize people over tasks create teams that feel valued and empowered. This investment builds the foundation for collaboration, innovation, and sustained success. Relationships are built on purpose, mutual respect, and understanding. These relationships form the bedrock of high-performing teams, which are resilient in the face of challenges.

Take Action: In what ways can you shift from a task-focused approach to one that prioritizes long-term relationship building?

Remember, people remember how we make them feel, not just the results we achieve. By connecting with purpose, we create work cultures where everyone feels valued and empowered to succeed. 

💬 What’s one way you bring purpose to your professional connections? I’d love to hear your stories below!