In today’s increasingly complex and fast-moving world of work, HR managers and team leaders do much more than manage processes or hit targets. They are the guardians of company culture and team cohesion. But trust within teams doesn’t happen automatically. It needs to be nurtured, day after day.
In her powerful book Dare to Lead, Brené Brown reminds us that trust is built through vulnerability. It’s the courage to say, “I don’t have all the answers” — and in doing so, create a safe space for others to step forward and contribute authentically.
At Dolomist, we witness this transformation every day in our immersive, nature-based experiences. Through our Adventure and Mentor programs, we help teams rediscover the power of vulnerability as a catalyst for mutual trust and stronger collaboration.
Why Vulnerability Strengthens Team Trust
Brené Brown defines vulnerability as “uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure.” It’s not weakness — it’s genuine courage.
According to insights from Harvard Business Review and McKinsey, psychologically safe teams — where vulnerability is welcomed — are consistently more innovative and resilient. When leaders openly acknowledge uncertainties or seek honest feedback, they reinforce trust and build a culture of authenticity.
As Patrick Lencioni, author of The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, teaches us, vulnerability-based trust is the foundation of every successful team. Without it, collaboration remains superficial and fragile.
"Trust is built in small moments," Brown reminds us. And these moments become even more powerful when experienced together in nature — perhaps on a shared hike or around a fire under the open sky.
4 Practical Actions to Cultivate Trust Through Vulnerability
1. Lead by Example — Embrace Imperfection
Admit when you don’t have all the answers. As Daniel Goleman highlights, leaders with emotional intelligence foster environments of openness and psychological safety.
2. Move from Explaining to Expressing
Don’t just explain decisions with logic — share your emotions and intentions too. Brené Brown emphasizes that this deepens empathy and strengthens team belonging.
Pro tip: Start team meetings by asking: “What’s on your mind right now?” or “What’s your biggest challenge this week?”
3. Empower, Don’t Direct
Research by Adam Grant shows that the most motivated teams are those where people feel they have a voice in shaping solutions. Involve your team in co-creating plans and strategies.
4. Take Your Team Outdoors
Nature breaks down hierarchies and fosters genuine interactions. Studies from Stanford show that time spent in nature reduces stress and boosts creativity by up to 50%. At Dolomist, our Adventure experience challenges teams through shared physical and mental tasks, while Mentor opens space for strategic reflection and meaningful leadership conversations.
Nature as an Accelerator for Authentic Leadership
At Dolomist, we see every day how nature accelerates trust-building.
Our Adventure program energizes teams with dynamic problem-solving activities set in pristine landscapes. These hands-on challenges require immediate trust and collaboration.
On the other hand, our Mentor experience provides a safe space for deeper strategic reflection. Through guided hikes and outdoor leadership exercises, teams strengthen emotional intelligence and resilience in an inspiring, open environment.
As one of our participants beautifully described it:
“It feels like just walking, but in the end, it’s a way to stop, think, and crystallize the best ideas you have in your mind.”
These experiences go far beyond traditional corporate training. They are fertile grounds where vulnerability transforms into trust, and trust blossoms into authentic teamwork.
A Reflection for HR Leaders
Building trust isn’t a box to check — it’s an ongoing process to be cultivated with care. Practicing vulnerability every day becomes the lifeblood of resilient, connected teams.
If you’re looking to move beyond conventional team-building exercises and create genuine, lasting connections, explore the power of nature. Dolomist’s Adventure and Mentor programs are designed to help your teams step away from daily routines and rediscover their collective strength.
Discover Dolomist Corporate Experiences — where leadership potential meets the regenerative power of nature.
