KINDNESS

And they spoke to him, saying, “If you are kind to these people, and please them, and speak good words to them, they will be your servants forever.”

(2 Chronicles 10:7, NKJV)

After the death of Solomon, his son, Rehoboam, became king.  The people asked the young king to lighten their workload.  The older advisors recommended he respond with kindness.  These advisors had served with his father, the wisest man on earth. Rehoboam rejected their advice. He consulted with younger men, with whom he had grown up. They advised him to tell the people that he would be harder on them than Solomon had been. When the people heard Rehoboam's reply, the northern ten tribes rebelled and formed a new kingdom.

Trust is earned. 

Rehoboam had just begun his reign as king. He had not yet earned the trust of the people. This incident was his first test. He failed.

People do not follow someone because of their position or background. They follow because the person has earned their trust.

Treat people with kindness.

People respond much better to kindness than they do to harshness or indifference. If they feel that you truly care about them, they will be more likely trust you and follow your leadership. Everyone wants to be treated kindly. The "Golden Rule" is the best policy - treat others the way you want to be treated.