What’s the one leadership quality you must have to build a successful team?

Recently, I had the honor of being in the presence of Colonel Jason Glynn, the commander of Nellis Air Force Base. When I asked him that question, he didn’t hesitate for a second.

He said, “Trust.”

He explained that in order to lead effectively, he must surround himself with people he trusts — and just as importantly, he must earn their trust in his leadership. That kind of mutual trust doesn’t happen by accident; it’s built over time through honesty, consistency, and connection.

As we continued our conversation, he emphasized another critical piece of leadership: feedback.

He said that as hard as it can be to hear, feedback is absolutely essential to growth — both for him as a commander and for his team members who depend on him to lead with integrity.

That struck a chord with me because, in the conflict-resolution workshops I’ve been leading lately, we spend a lot of time talking about feedback — how to receive it without being defensive and how to give it with compassion.

And it’s true: trust and feedback go together.

Without trust, feedback feels like criticism.
With trust, feedback feels like support.

So, here’s your Front-Row Friday challenge:

Build trust intentionally.
Be the kind of leader whose team knows that your words and actions align. Follow through on what you say, and your credibility will grow.
Invite feedback often.
Don’t wait for an annual review or a crisis to ask how you’re doing. Make it part of your routine — a natural rhythm of learning and improving.
Give feedback compassionately.
When you correct or redirect someone, do it with their growth in mind. People can sense it when you give feedback with care and sincere intention.

Leadership isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about creating a culture where people feel safe enough to be honest, curious, and accountable.

So, this week, lead with trust, listen with humility, and grow through feedback.

See you next Front-Row Friday!