Rebound Before You Score: How to Build Trust on a New Team
I recently joined a pickup basketball game, and the experience reminded me of the importance of approaching new teams, whether on the court or in business, with intentionality. The key insight?
Sequencing matters.
When joining any new team, our instinct is often to make a quick impact. In basketball, that might mean taking the first open shot. In business, it could mean pitching a bold idea or trying to lead a conversation. But jumping ahead without earning trust can backfire. In both arenas, there’s a smarter way to establish yourself.
Step 1: Rebound to Build Trust
The first way to contribute is by grabbing rebounds, both offensive and defensive. Defensive rebounds end your opponent’s possession, while offensive rebounds give your team second chances. This kind of effort-based play often goes unnoticed on the scoreboard but is always appreciated by teammates. It demonstrates hustle, selflessness, and awareness, qualities that foster immediate trust.
In a new work team, this looks like doing the small but vital tasks: taking notes, organizing materials, solving quick problems without being asked.
Step 2: Pass and Facilitate
Once trust starts forming, shift to playmaking. In basketball, this means smart dribbling, setting screens, and making the pass that leads to a bucket. Helping others succeed not only makes the offense flow—it makes you a teammate people want to work with.
In a professional setting, this means amplifying others’ ideas, making connections, and giving credit. It’s about enabling success rather than claiming the spotlight.
Step 3: Play Intense Defense
Defense is effort. It’s where character shows. Contesting shots, picking up your man full court, diving for loose balls—these things change momentum. They also demonstrate your commitment to the team over personal stats.
At work, defense means protecting the team’s integrity. It might be catching errors before they escalate, stepping up during a crisis, or quietly keeping things on track when stakes are high.
Step 4: Score—When It’s Time
Only after building trust through effort, facilitation, and consistency should you assert yourself as a scorer. Once the team believes in you, they want you to take the shot. Whether it’s draining a three or closing a deal, your impact is welcomed—not resented.
Scoring at work might mean leading a major project, proposing a bold strategy, or taking a public leadership role. But the team needs to trust that you’re doing it for the group—not your ego.
Don’t Skip the Sequence
Early in my career, I thought I could walk into a company and instantly make big changes. I had ideas, confidence, and energy—but not context, credibility, or team buy-in. Just like in basketball, skipping the early steps led to missed opportunities and limited influence.
You won’t get big things done alone. You need a team, and trust is the foundation.
Measuring Real Impact
Once you’ve built trust and made contributions, ask yourself:
- Is your work perceived as helpful?
- Do your teammates or clients feel supported by your presence?
- Is your value recognized by leadership?
- Does your impact go beyond effort and create measurable results?
These are the questions that reveal your actual contribution, not just in basketball or business, but in any team-driven endeavor.
