Trust: The Foundation of a High-Performance Culture
Photo by George C | Unsplash
How does trust impact organizational culture?
Dr. Paul Zak, a neuroscientist and author of Trust Factor: The Science of Creating High-Performance Companies, has dedicated 20 years to researching the science of interpersonal trust and demonstrating its powerful influence on outcomes. His findings are vital for organizations aiming to foster an Involvement Culture™.
Benefits of trust: increased productivity, collaboration, and engagement
Dr. Zak's lab was the first to develop a laboratory protocol for measuring the acute production of oxytocin in the brain and linking this neurochemical to trusting behaviors. This widely cited research has led to new treatments for neurologic and psychiatric patients, and a deeper understanding of human social interactions.
Zak’s research reveals that high-trust cultures result in 50% higher productivity, improved collaboration, and greater employee engagement. How are these enhanced behaviors related to trust? Trust triggers the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the “connection hormone,” which helps individuals feel safe, valued, and motivated to contribute.
When these conditions are present, team members share ideas more openly, fostering growth for both the team and the organization.
Key behaviors to build trust
In his book, Zak outlines eight essential behaviors leaders can utilize to cultivate trust. Among them are:
Inducing “Challenge Stress” – Assigning difficult, yet achievable tasks to release neurochemicals that strengthen social connections and improve focus.
Intentionally Building Relationships – Demonstrating empathy and providing support to others.
Showing Vulnerability – Allowing leaders and colleagues to display their humanity by being honest and vulnerable.
A common thread among these three behaviors is their ability to foster connection. Much of our work with individuals, teams, and organizations begins with increasing connections. Helping team members see one another as people – rather than just coworkers – creates a strong foundation for trust to flourish.
Measuring trust
At The Involvement Practice, we bring the science of trust to life through our work with clients. By combining our facilitated immersive culture activation experiences with Zak’s Immersion Neuroscience technology, we help organizations measure and strengthen trust within their teams.
Small, intentional changes can unlock a sense of understanding, ownership, pride, and connection at every level of an organization.
Are you interested in learning more about the science behind trust and culture?
We’d love to connect. Book a Consultation
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For more on Dr. Paul Zak’s research, check out Trust Factor: The Science of Creating High-Performance Companies or his work on Immersion Neuroscience.
