Transparency has been a buzzword in business for many years. But what does it mean and how transparent are you in leading your department or organization?
Why is transparency important?
- It builds trust, in the leader, in the department and its mission, objectives and values
- It strengthens a team or community because trust is at its foundation
- It improves communication and minimizes individual or small group (mis) interpretation
- Builds accountability by clarifying roles, responsibilities and outcomes
There are four key areas where transparency is essential:
- Priorities- people need to know what is a priority and the reasons why. This helps them connect priorities to the larger purpose.
- Decision-making- a clear and consistent process needs to exist that provides opportunities for inclusion and establishes who is making a decision.
- Communication- establishing consistent communication will promote dialogue, trust, understanding and support.
- Information- It is better that people have accurate information that comes from the source instead of rumor or water cooler chatter.
Transparency will prevent, or at least reduce, the amount of ‘water cooler chatter’ taking place in your department. If it’s important to the department, it’s important for everyone in the department to know.
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