How Transparency Helps your Career.

Corporations are utilizing new markets for sustainable growth with methods of Transparency.  The practices of companies like Enron and WorldCom deterred our trust in major corporations. Businesses like Google who send out transparency reports quarterly have made their financials open to the public. Relaying intricate knowledge, comfortably instills an aura of respect and discourages reputation sabotage. A commitment to transparency helps build relationships, reputation and perpetuates the legitimacy of integrity and accountability. This commitment encompasses your business, customers, and your life.

Consider your co-workers for a moment. Have you ever requested something without explanation? Were they motivated to help you without reason? In my experience, they are more apt to expedite your request if given the explanation. Empathy is one of the key components to Transparency. Hold your co-workers to a higher standard and update them on the status of your project or sale. They will provide better support if they understand how and why you are requesting something from them.

Reciprocation is expected with your co-workers. Make ‘Rounds’ (like visiting patients) and ask your co-workers about issues or gratifications. Set up a suggestion box and make sure they know you have an ‘Open Door’ policy. All of these techniques will let people know that you are an honest person who will tell you if there is something important to say.

Portraying this to new customers can be a difficult priority. It is your job to build a strategic relationship of trust in an atmosphere where dishonest tactics are sometimes an unfortunate reality. Statements like, ‘That’s our policy’ or ‘it’s the best we can do’ repel clients because they feel you are being evasive. Long lasting business relationships can be facilitated by letting your clients see behind the curtain. Divulging your inner mechanics enhances their perceptions and increases your chance of future collaboration. 

On a personal note, these methods pertain to life as well.  Stress can cause bitter complaints or illegitimate assumptions. Venting out your joys or concerns makes you feel better and allows friends and family to empathize with your moods. Bottling up personal emotions is reflective to a company that does not divulge financial statements. Eventually, there will be a dramatic public display of disputes and nobody wants that.

Transparency is the full, accurate disclosure of information. Honesty and responsibility inflate empathy, reputation and the respect you vie for in your personal and professional careers. Disclosure of information extends empathy in your relationships and places you in good standing for referrals. Without an open attitude, you may be inadvertently driving people away. Protect yourself from using persuasion tactics by employing divulgence. When you do that, people will plainly see your moral character.