The concept of trust at work is supported by which practice?

• A. Seeking shared gain over personal gain
• B. Gossiping about teammates
• C. Withholding information
• D. Never admitting mistakes

Answer: (A)

Trust at work grows when you pursue shared gain over personal gain. This mindset shows you’re reliable and aligned with the team’s success, not just your own interests. When you prioritize the group’s outcomes, you’re more willing to share information, collaborate, and act with integrity, which makes others feel safe to rely on you and to speak openly. That openness and consistency strengthen the overall trust within the team.

Gossiping erodes trust because it creates fear, hides information, and damages psychological safety. Withholding information blocks others from doing good work and signals you’re keeping secrets. Never admitting mistakes suggests a lack of accountability and honesty, which quickly breaks down trust. In contrast, choosing the shared-gain approach keeps communication transparent and demonstrates commitment to the team, which is exactly what builds lasting trust.