Observational Audit Checklist — Gather behavioral evidence

Surveys capture perceptions; behavior confirms them. Use this checklist during day-to-day work, meetings, or shadowing to collect objective signs of trust (or its absence).

How to use

1. Pick a 2–4 day window to observe normal work (avoid special events).
2. Assign one observer or rotate short observation shifts.
3. Mark each item: Often / Sometimes / Rarely. Add one short note or example when you mark Sometimes or Rarely.

Checklist

• Commitments kept: People complete agreed work without repeated excuses.
• Timely info sharing: Important updates are posted or mentioned before they block others.
• Open questions: Team members ask clarifying questions instead of assuming or hiding uncertainty.
• Mistakes admitted: Individuals acknowledge minor errors and propose fixes.
• Blame language avoided: Conversations focus on causes and remedies, not assigning guilt.
• Cross-helping behavior: People offer help proactively when workload spikes.
• Decision rationale recorded: Key decisions include short reasons and owners accessible to the group.
• Feedback given respectfully: Constructive feedback is shared privately or in a way that preserves dignity.
• Participation is even: Meetings aren’t dominated by the same voices; quieter people contribute.
• Follow-up on actions: Meeting actions have owners and visible status updates.

Collecting examples

Short concrete examples are gold. Rather than "people don't share," record "On Tuesday, Alice didn't mention a supplier delay until Friday, which forced rework on the release." Examples keep conversations practical and actionable.