The Art & Science of Trust, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: Trust is a fundamental component of successful organizations, impacting employee motivation, collaboration, and performance. This article examines both the scientific research behind trust-building and the practical leadership approaches needed to cultivate it. The authors present trust as both an art and science, requiring emotional intelligence alongside strategic implementation. The paper explores how trust develops through demonstrated competence, character integrity, effective communication, and industry-specific applications in healthcare and technology. Special attention is given to trust-building during crisis situations, where transparency and compassionate leadership become critical. By balancing research insights with actionable leadership practices, the article provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and strengthening organizational trust as a strategic advantage in today's complex business environment.