Abstract Transformational leaders are thought to play a key role in determining organizational effectiveness. A key component of the transformational leadership process is the degree to which followers trust their leader. Thus, it is not surprising that researchers and practitioners alike are interested in identifying the mechanisms through which trust in leadership can be developed and maintained, as well as those factors mediating this relationship (e.g., Gillespie & Mann, 2004; Podsakoff et al., 1990). Though there is research addressing conceptually distinct mechanisms for fostering trust...