open · Team Building · 180–240 min · 3-20 people · medium energy
Trust Manifesto
The Trust Manifesto is a team-building activity designed to foster trust by collaboratively creating a set of guiding principles. It encourages open communication and accountability within the team.
When to use Trust Manifesto
Use this method at the beginning of a project or team formation to establish clear expectations and shared values around trust, especially when team members are new to working together.
What it solves
Lack of clear expectations around team behavior, difficulty addressing trust-related issues, and a lack of accountability within the team.
How to run Trust Manifesto, step by step
- Introduce the concept of a Trust Manifesto and its importance for teamwork (5 mins).
- Explain the three elements of trust: positive relationships, competence, and consistency/integrity, referencing Zenger & Folkman (2019) (5 mins).
- Individually, each team member writes two 'we' statements for each element of trust (60 mins).
- As a team, discuss all statements and select ten to include in the manifesto, ensuring at least three statements represent each element of trust (60 mins).
- All team members sign the Trust Manifesto (10 mins).
- Weekly, the team evaluates their adherence to the manifesto and makes necessary adjustments (60 mins).
- Team members individually complete the Trust Scale halfway through and at the end of the project to reflect on their progress (30 mins).
Materials needed
- Whiteboard or flip chart
- Markers
- Paper or digital document for writing statements
- Team Trust Scale (downloadable)
- Pens/pencils
Facilitator tips
- Emphasize the importance of using 'we' statements to promote collective responsibility.
- Provide examples of trust statements to inspire participants, but encourage original thinking.
- Create a safe and inclusive environment for open and honest discussion.
Common pitfalls
- Statements are too vague or generic. Ensure statements are specific and actionable.
- Team members are hesitant to share their thoughts. Foster a culture of psychological safety.
- The manifesto is created but not actively used. Schedule regular check-ins to review and adjust the manifesto.
Variations
- Use different frameworks for defining trust elements (e.g., Patrick Lencioni's Five Dysfunctions of a Team).
- Incorporate visual elements into the manifesto (e.g., drawings, symbols).
- Anonymously collect initial statements to reduce self-censorship.
Running it online or hybrid
Use a shared online document or whiteboard tool for collaborative statement generation and signing.
What it produces
A signed document or digital record of the team's Trust Manifesto.
Origin
Adapted from Transition Makers Toolbox — source
Build a session around Trust Manifesto
METODIC places Trust Manifesto inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.