Let’s get right to it. Workplaces thrive on relationships, and at the heart of every strong relationship lies reciprocity. Leadership isn’t what you ask of your team; it’s about what you give in return. I’ve learned that reciprocity creates trust, connection, and alignment – key ingredients for building a successful, unstoppable team.

In All In, I explore how true leadership is a two-way street. It’s not about commanding compliance; it’s about cultivating collaboration and mutual respect. Reciprocity is the driving force behind this transformation, and here’s how it changed our company.

The trust multiplier

Think about the last time someone genuinely invested in your success. Did it motivate you? Did it make you want to bring your best to the table? That’s the power of reciprocity, which builds trust. When your team sees you’re willing to give your time, effort, and support, they’re inspired to reciprocate in kind.

When trust is present, your team doesn’t just follow your lead, they believe in it.

Role alignment: the gift of clarity

One of the most effective ways to practice reciprocity as a leader is by aligning roles with each team member’s strengths, passions, and goals. When you take the time to understand what makes your people tick, you’re investing in their growth and setting the stage for their success.

Aligned roles give team members the clarity and confidence they need to perform at their best. This alignment isn’t static. It requires ongoing communication, regular check-ins, and a willingness to adapt. When you ensure every role is crafted to maximize individual and team potential, you empower your team – and that’s so much better than managing them. (Heck, you won’t even have to manage them anymore…)

Reciprocity in action

• Share the vision: Connect your team to the bigger picture. When people see the purpose behind their work, their commitment deepens.

• Invest in growth: Whether through training, mentorship, or stretch assignments, show your team you’re committed to their development.

• Be transparent: Lead by example. Own your mistakes, celebrate their wins, and acknowledge their efforts consistently.

The role of reciprocity in trust

Misaligned roles lead to frustration and disengagement. But when roles align with individual talents, trust flourishes. Your team sees you’re not just filling slots based on job descriptions, you’re crafting roles tailored to their strengths.

Aligned roles reduce conflicts and increase collaboration, yes, but it’s also a recognition of each person’s innate abilities. To match that with a job? It’s magic. But real.  When everyone knows their purpose and how it fits into the larger mission, energy shifts from managing issues to achieving goals.

A snapshot of our team that experienced role alignment based on innate potential:

• Erin, my scheduler: Erin started as my assistant, but was creative and had the capacity to take on more. She comes from a creative background, fashion, in fact. So when it was time to create merch, she was all in. 

• Kelsey, my original assistant: Kelsey has helped me design my company since day one, and it was only natural that she go from assistant to president of our company. Now it seems like a huge leap, but think about it. Who knows more about the inner workings of the company than your right hand person?

• Amy: We hired her to send out gifts years ago. Today she’s my co-host on my podcast. And she’s still a gift giver, we can’t shake that out of her!

• Jenna: Hired to answer emails, she’s now our head copywriter. Tada!

We’ve had more hires for specific roles, but if they start to look differently, we are nimble enough to make those changes and thrive. 

Beyond the office

The principles of reciprocity don’t stop at the workplace door. They ripple outward into client relationships, partnerships, and even personal connections. By giving generously, be it your time, expertise, or resources, you build a culture where trust becomes the norm.

Leadership means showing up fully. It’s about practicing reciprocity daily, not just when it’s convenient. Ask yourself: “What value can I add today?” Then act on it.

So here’s your challenge: give as much as you take, and then some. Focus on aligning roles to individual strengths, invest in your team’s success, and watch your workplace transform into a powerhouse of collaboration and trust.

Wishing you (authentic) team building.
– Mike

PS. Ready to build an unstoppable team? Get All In now. It’s time to lead with purpose, clarity, and the power of reciprocity.