335 - Be With People, and You Don't Need an Open-door Policy
Discover why leadership isn’t about an open-door policy but about active presence. Learn how being with your team drives better results and stronger connections.
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Be With People, and You Don’t Need an Open-door Policy
The classic open-door policy is a staple of traditional leadership. But is it truly effective? In this episode of The Daily Hint, I challenge conventional wisdom by exploring why leadership shouldn’t rely on a literal open door but rather on your physical and emotional presence among your team.
Leaders often claim their doors are always open, signaling availability. But what happens when employees take them up on that offer? Many managers find themselves unprepared for genuine, spontaneous conversations. This episode explores how meaningful leadership requires more than just being open—it demands connection.
Here’s why:
• Proximity builds trust. Being physically present makes you more approachable and in tune with your team’s daily challenges.
• Eliminate barriers. Offices can create a sense of hierarchy and separation. The more accessible you are, the more likely your team will seek your guidance.
• Drive better results. Frequent interactions lead to stronger relationships, fostering collaboration and improving overall performance.
True leadership happens where your people are. Whether you’re discussing sensitive issues or simply catching up, your active involvement can transform your workplace culture. Learn how to lead with presence and build an environment where your team thrives.
Tune in to discover the secret to a more connected, impactful leadership style.
Highlights:
00:00 Introduction: The Open Door Policy
00:13 Challenges with Open Door Policies
00:29 Effective Leadership Strategies
00:40 Conclusion: Be Present with Your Team
Links:
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Transcript:
How to start an open door conversation. And that's the weird thing. There are managers out there that keep the door open in offices, the old school way, where they say, yeah, my door is always open and you are welcome to join me. But what often happens is that it's, they just say, yeah, I'm open and they want to show it to you.
But what's quite interesting, when you step into the doorframe and it is open. Then you start a conversation. Hey, I have something I would love to talk to you. And then you see how some managers and organization are puzzled. So if you are on the leadership side, on the manager side, I believe you should even not have your own office.
You should be with the people except for meetings where it's required to be in a room. So be the leader you can be and be with the people as much as possible. Even then, when you have secret things and things that people might not need to know, but as more you're connected to people, as better it is for the organization and the result of the organization.