The 13 Behaviors of High-Trust Leaders, as outlined by Stephen M.R. Covey in his book “The SPEED of Trust,” are essential attributes and actions that leaders can cultivate to build trust within their teams and organizations. Although Covey’s framework is contemporary, the essence of these behaviors can be seen throughout history, reflecting universal principles of integrity, leadership, and interpersonal dynamics. Let’s explore these behaviors and connect them to historical examples or principles where possible.
1. Talk Straight
Honesty and clarity have always been prized in leaders. Historical figures like Abraham Lincoln, known for his candor and straightforwardness, exemplify this behavior.
2. Demonstrate Respect
Great leaders throughout history have understood the importance of respecting others. Emperor Ashoka of the Maurya Dynasty, after witnessing the devastation of war, adopted policies of non-violence and respect towards all his subjects.
3. Create Transparency
Transparency builds trust. The Magna Carta of 1215 can be seen as a historical push for transparency and accountability in leadership, limiting the king’s power and ensuring certain rights for the nobility.
4. Right Wrongs
Admitting mistakes and making amends is a powerful trust-building behavior. Leaders like Nelson Mandela, who sought reconciliation rather than retribution post-apartheid, embody this principle.
5. Show Loyalty
Loyalty to one’s group and protecting their interests, exemplified by figures such as Saladin during the Crusades, demonstrates a commitment to one’s people and principles.
6. Deliver Results
Consistently achieving results, as seen in the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, who established a period of peace and prosperity known as the Elizabethan Era, builds credibility and trust.
7. Get Better
Continuous improvement and learning have been hallmarks of effective leadership, as demonstrated by Leonardo da Vinci’s relentless pursuit of knowledge and innovation in various fields.
8. Confront Reality
Facing the harsh truths of one’s circumstances, similar to Winston Churchill’s leadership during WWII, involves acknowledging difficult situations and working through them rather than avoiding them.
9. Clarify Expectations
Setting clear expectations has been a key strategy for successful military leaders like Sun Tzu, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and strategic planning.
10. Practice Accountability
Holding oneself and others accountable is critical for trust. Cyrus the Great of Persia was known for holding his administrators accountable, which helped him manage his vast empire effectively.
11. Listen First
Listening to understand and empathize has been a trait of compassionate leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, whose approach to leadership was deeply rooted in empathy and understanding the perspectives of others.
12. Keep Commitments
Keeping one’s word, as exemplified by George Washington’s commitment to American independence and constitutional governance, is crucial for trustworthiness.
13. Extend Trust
Granting trust to others, as seen in the delegation practices of Genghis Khan, who empowered his generals with significant autonomy, can foster loyalty and innovation.
These 13 Behaviors, though framed in a modern context, are deeply rooted in the timeless qualities of effective leadership. Historical leaders who exemplified these behaviors often left lasting legacies, demonstrating the enduring value of trust in leadership across the ages.