Loyalty has become a buzz word lately. So many people are finding out what many have known for years…loyalty is the currency of leadership. I am excited about this trend. I think it’s sad that were are at a place and time where we have to even explain what loyalty is to people. It has unfortunately been thrown out with other stale and useless practices such as work ethic, chivalry, etiquette and honesty.

Here are five steps you must take to develop this character building value.

1. Trust those around you. Believe that everyone has positive intentions and wants the best. As you trust them, they will also learn to trust you. As Lencioni points out in The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, trust is the foundation of any relationship. To develop loyalty, you must trust, even when your instinct is to be skeptical. You can’t fake trust. It’s one of those things that you have to go in all or nothing.

2. Work with those around you. Too many bosses get into the habit of pointing the finger and never rolling up their sleeves. You can never be too important to do the little things. While others could do it, the message you send when you get your hands dirty with them is enormous. This is the proof that you authentically care for your team, constituents, customers, students or family. By being willing to jump in and help you send a message that you don’t put yourself, your title or your position above others.

3. Equip those around you. We are curious people. We like to learn and we all want to become better or more effective at what we do. We all enjoy freedom and the ability to grow at a good pace. Someone who truly wants to ingratiate themselves to others will share what they know or have learned with others. They will view their knowledge and experience as something to be transferred, not kept under lock and key. When you equip other for success, you set them up to win. When you set them up to win…you win.

4. Invest in those around you. If you show you care, even if at first it is forced, it will demonstrate that you are not solely concerned about your priorities; that you care about others and want them to reach their potential. One of the quickest and easiest ways to earn loyalty is to simply spend time with those you lead. And don’t dominate the conversation about yourself. Ask them questions about their family, their dreams and their goals. Not only will you be amazed by what you learn, but you will earn a tremendous amount of loyalty.

5. Encourage those around you. It is one thing to invest; it is another thing to encourage. Take time to share what you notice. Take time to write an encouraging note or card. Publicly acknowledge their victories. Share with their supervisor the win. Reward them if appropriate, but always recognize their efforts. By taking time to encourage you once again show they are important to you.

Understand two things. You cannot expect loyalty unless you give it first and loyalty cannot be manufactured. Good luck. Loyalty is a treasure worth the quest

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