I spent 17 hours asking an elite Air Force Commander (who has been deployed across the world and led hundreds of airmen) how to win the trust of a team. 

I was expecting strategies rooted in fear and dominance...

But all Troy talked about was embracing equality and compassion.

Here are 3 lessons Troy taught me that can help you become a respected leader, build trust with your direct reports, and win your team's belief.

PUT YOURSELF ON EQUAL FOOTING

When CEO's see Troy's leadership success and ask him how he does it, his first response is a question: "Where do you eat lunch?"

Most leaders eat alone in their offices, take advantage of exclusive hierarchical perks, and maintain a wide distance from direct reports.

Troy eats every meal with his team and gets to know each individual on the deepest level.

What small actions can you take to even the playing field so your employees begin seeing you as just "one of the guys?"

WORK IN THE TRENCHES WITH YOUR TEAM

Most CEOs manage their teams from the sidelines, without knowing the reality of the demanding work their team is doing.

Troy does every pushup and 10-mile run with his team and often stays late at work to help his airmen finish cleaning fighter aircrafts.

Where are you the bystander idly watching your team, when you need to demonstrate you still have the grit to do the dirty work?

EFFECTIVENESS DOESN'T ALWAYS COME BEFORE COMPASSIONATE ACTION

Most CEOs identify their businesses bottlenecks, make a strategy of growth, and single-pointedly execute.

Troy definitely gets shit done, but will almost always make time for an airmen who needs emotional support, or take a Saturday to help a team member move apartments.

Where are you completely prioritizing operating, when you could invest more time in humanizing?