'n Bestuursperspektief op die rol van vertroue in 'n militêre organisasie

Abstract

The ability to establish and maintain trust is regarded as a critical modern leadership skill. However, different conceptualisations of trust saw to it that the empirical and theoretical sides of research did not merge. As a result, trust has been studied in a variety of different ways and resulted in a varied and fragmented knowledge base, which this study attempts to address. The objectives of this study were to investigate conceptualizations of trust as perceived by middle- and senior level managers in a military medical basis in order to provide recommendations to management on how to build trust. Research was conducted in two phases of investigation. In phase 1 a literature review of the concept was conducted by analyzing and categorizing definitions and frameworks currently in use. In the second phase an empirical investigation was conducted by means of a descriptive and explorative qualitative research design and the use of a non-probability purposive sampling technique. The results showed that three proposed factors of trustworthiness (ability, benevolence and integrity), effective communication as well as perceived justice and fairness are fundamental to the establishment of trust. It is evident that management should draft a strategic plan to ensure that trust is established and maintained on a sustainable basis. The findings will contribute to a better understanding of the essential nature of trust and assist management in an effective approach to master trust as an essential leadership skill in order to successfully enhance business reputation and outcomes.