Participative leadership is a democratic leadership style where team members are intentionally involved in making decisions. This doesn’t mean you lose control. You’re still leading—but you’re opening the door for input, discussion, and even shared decision-making when appropriate.

If your team doesn't trust you, your title doesn't matter. People don’t follow position. They follow people they believe in. And that belief? It's built on trust. Real trust isn’t earned by grand gestures. It’s built brick by brick—through how you show up every single day. Research has shown that three components that come together to help you build trust with your team, colleagues, or bosses. Competence, Character, and Caring.