3 Ways Transparency Has Helped Me Transform My Teams (and How it Can Impact Yours)

Having led teams of varied sizes and cultures, I've seen firsthand how transparency always fuels innovation, builds trust, and subsequently drives exceptional results.?

Here are 3 strategies I used to keep my team in the loop that have consistently delivered results:

• Strategy 1: Share the "Why" Behind Decisions

When teams understand the reasoning behind choices, they're not just following orders; they're invested in the outcome. When employees are aware of the bigger picture, it ignites their passion and sparks a wave of new ideas.?

For example, when your company accomplishes a milestone, make sure your team is the first to know, even before the news gets out to the public. This will give your team a sense of shared ownership.?

Something you can do to execute this strategy is hold regular "Ask Me Anything" (AMA) sessions where employees can ask questions about company strategy and decision-making. This creates an open dialogue and builds trust.

• Strategy 2: Encourage Open Communication – Even About Problems?

Transparency isn't just about good news. It's about creating a culture where everyone feels safe to voice concerns and challenges. When communication is open from the get-go, teams can collectively troubleshoot and find solutions quickly and efficiently, averting potential setbacks.

For example, if your company faces technical challenges during a project launch due to an internal mishap, openly communicate the problem among all involved parties without pointing fingers or throwing blame. This will empower your entire team to come together and collectively find the right solution regardless of assigned responsibilities.?

To execute this strategy, you can implement a "no blame" policy when addressing mistakes. Focus on finding solutions rather than assigning blame.

Strategy 3: Build Trust through Vulnerability

Sharing your own uncertainties and lessons learned can foster a safe space for learning and open communication, leading to increased trust and higher performance within teams.

For example, sharing your own professional goals, aspirations, fears, and even mistakes internally with your team members in one-to-one settings will nurture a personal connection between you and your employees. This will let them feel safe sharing their own goals and fears, nurturing their trust in you as a leader and your company as a safe environment.?

To help you see this through, you can hold weekly ‘Office Hours’ where your team can come to you with any quotations, concerns, or ideas. This will foster a safe space for learning and open communication.

What about you? How do you prioritize transparency with your team? Help your fellow leaders and share your experiences in the comments!