What do you do if your team leader lacks credibility and trust through networking?

1 Assess Honestly

Before taking any action, take a step back and objectively assess your team leader's credibility issues. Is it a lack of experience, poor communication skills, or failure to deliver on promises that's causing the trust deficit? Understanding the root cause is essential to determine whether the situation can be improved through feedback and support or if it's a systemic issue that might require looking for mentorship or opportunities outside your current team.

2 Open Dialogue

Initiating a candid yet respectful conversation with your team leader can sometimes resolve misunderstandings and begin rebuilding trust. Approach the topic with specific examples and a desire to find solutions. This dialogue could lead to your leader taking steps to enhance their credibility, or at the very least, it will signal that their team is invested in improving the overall group dynamic.

3 Network Internally

Networking within your organization can provide a support system and alternative perspectives. Engage with colleagues from different departments to learn how they deal with similar issues and to potentially find mentors who can guide you through this challenge. This internal networking can also help you understand if the credibility issue is isolated or part of a larger organizational culture problem.

4 Seek External Advice

Expanding your professional network outside your current organization can offer new insights into handling leadership credibility issues. By connecting with industry peers and mentors, you can gain advice on navigating the situation and learn strategies that others have successfully employed. This external perspective can be invaluable in providing clarity and potential solutions.

5 Build Personal Credibility

Focusing on building your own credibility can positively influence your team and potentially offset some of the negative impacts of your leader's shortcomings. By demonstrating reliability, competence, and integrity in your work, you set an example for others and may inspire your leader to follow suit. Your personal brand is something that you have control over and can carry with you throughout your career.

6 Plan Forward

If efforts to resolve the trust issues with your team leader are unsuccessful, it may be time to consider your long-term career goals. Networking can help you identify new opportunities within or outside your current organization where you can work under credible leadership. Always keep in mind your career trajectory and personal values when making such decisions.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?