How do you rebuild trust with a team member who feels excluded from important project decisions?

In a previous project, a team member approached me feeling excluded from decision-making processes. Instead of dismissing their concerns, I scheduled a private meeting to listen attentively. During our discussion, I acknowledged their feelings of exclusion and validated their perspective. I explained the rationale behind recent decisions and assured them of their valuable role in future planning. By actively addressing their emotions and involving them more in team discussions, we rebuilt trust and improved overall team morale. This experience taught me the importance of empathy and proactive communication in fostering an inclusive team environment.

Validate their experience by expressing understanding and empathy for how exclusion may have affected them, demonstrating your commitment to open communication and inclusivity moving forward. For instance, say, "I understand how being left out can be frustrating. Your input is valuable, and I want to ensure you're included in future discussions."

oster transparency by actively seeking their input and sharing decision-making processes, ensuring they feel informed and valued. For instance, "Moving forward, I'll make sure we have regular updates and opportunities for you to contribute to project decisions."

Emphasize collaborative decision-making where everyone's perspectives are actively sought and integrated into the project process. Communicate the importance of their insights and ensure they have a platform to contribute meaningfully. For example, "Going forward, I'm committed to making decisions together as a team, ensuring everyone's voice is heard and valued in shaping our projects."

Demonstrate ongoing commitment by consistently inviting their participation in discussions, seeking their input on relevant matters, and actively working to integrate their ideas into decision-making processes. Show genuine interest in their perspectives and reassure them of their importance to the team's success. For example, "I'm dedicated to ensuring your involvement in all stages of our projects moving forward. Your insights are invaluable, and I want to build a collaborative environment where everyone feels included."

Take time to understand the root causes of their feelings of exclusion, whether it's a communication breakdown, organizational dynamics, or personal factors. Offer opportunities for them to express their concerns and provide input on how to improve inclusivity. Implement concrete actions based on their feedback to foster a more inclusive and trusting team environment.