Trust is built and broken in small, everyday phrases. As a manager, the words you reach for shape how safe and valued your team feels. Here are phrases that build trust — and ones to avoid.
Phrases that build trust
'What do you think?' 'That's my mistake.' 'I've got your back.' 'Help me understand.' 'I trust your judgment.' These signal respect, safety, and confidence — the soil trust grows in.
Phrases that break it
'Because I said so.' 'That's not my problem.' 'Just get it done.' 'I told you so.' 'Why can't you...' These signal disrespect or blame and quietly erode the relationship, even when you don't mean them to.
It's the pattern that matters
Frequently asked questions
What phrases build team trust?
'What do you think?', 'That's my mistake', 'I've got your back', and 'I trust your judgment.'
What phrases break trust?
'Because I said so', 'That's not my problem', 'I told you so', and blame-laden 'why can't you' questions.
Does one bad phrase ruin trust?
No — it's the consistent pattern, especially under pressure, that defines your reputation.
How can I build better habits?
Book a free 30-minute class to work on it 1-on-1 with Digby R. Kerr.
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