"Trust is the emotional glue that binds followers and leaders together. The accumulation of trust is a measure of the legitimacy of leadership. It cannot be mandated or purchased; it must be earned" (Bennis et al., 1986).
This quote by Bennis and Nanus demonstrates the importance of developing trust within any structured system. As a measure of the legitimacy of leadership, leadership is rendered ineffective if trust is broken or non-existent. Trust can be built and earned among teachers as well as between teacher and principal through actions and clear communication that align with a shared vision. In the same regard, trust is diminished through actions and communication when individual’s abilities are not respected, inclusion is not developed or hierarchy prevails over collegiality.
