How to Build a High-Trust Team (Hint: It Starts with the 5 Gears)

Every leader wants a team that’s engaged, innovative, and resilient. But what’s the secret ingredient? According to Jeremie Kubicek and Steve Cockram, it’s not just strategy or skill—it’s presence. The '5 Gears' framework gives teams a common language for building trust, navigating conflict, and supporting each other through change.

Teams that use the 5 Gears learn to respect each other’s needs for focus, connection, and rest. Meetings start with a quick gear check-in: Who’s in 5th gear and needs quiet? Who’s ready for 3rd gear social time? This reduces misunderstandings and helps everyone show up at their best. Leaders model vulnerability by using reverse gear to apologize and repair when necessary, creating a culture where feedback is safe and innovation is possible.

Case studies show that organizations adopting the 5 Gears see measurable improvements in morale, productivity, and retention. Team rituals—like shared breaks, regular one-on-ones, and clear boundaries around after-hours communication—help everyone stay balanced and engaged.

If you want to build a high-trust team, start by introducing the 5 Gears language, modeling healthy gear-shifting, and celebrating small wins. The results will speak for themselves. 2 3 4