Module Six: Transparency
Let's Be Real
I like real. I like authentic. That’s why I like the leader that I had the opportunity to talk with recently. He is straightforward and does not play games with words or intent. The problem is that he currently must work with someone who does not necessarily value authenticity. We have the same issue in our society today. We have lost the value of being authentic and transparent. We see the manipulation in our politics, our government, businesses, and even our personal relationships.
Try standing up for your convictions or beliefs, and you will find yourself chastised, scorned, and corrected by those on the opposing side of your stance. We have lost the ability to disagree with civility and respect. We have migrated to polarization and intolerance for those who have a different opinion or view.
This toxic phenomenon has caused stagnation in our critical thinking and is resulting in a narrowing of perspectives and mindsets among people of all walks of life. What my friend is experiencing is a microcosm of what we are experiencing in our culture today.
My friend told me that he is committed to not allowing that poor leadership style to creep into his ability to lead with authenticity and trust. We could learn a lesson from this seasoned leader. Just because our society may be traveling down a road of judgment and condemnation for anyone who offers an opposing view doesn’t mean that we must buy into that philosophy.
Choose to lead with authentic transparency and respect and you will make a difference.
Larry Little
Eagle Center for Leadership
For leaders, transparency serves as a building block for true accountability. Transparency is about being open, not just with your words, but with your actions and intentions as well. Together, these efforts ensure people know where you stand, what you’re thinking, and why certain decisions are being made.
When you're transparent about your direction, priorities, and reasoning behind your decisions, no one on your team is left questioning or unclear. Clarity helps leaders make a difference, keeping people aligned and equipped to move forward together. Leaders who practice transparency are willing to share important updates, explain the "why" behind the strategy, and speak honestly about challenges. When something doesn't go as planned, they're not afraid to acknowledge it, focusing instead on what can be learned for next time. This kind of honesty sends a powerful message: we're in this together, and we grow through every experience.
Transparency builds accountability, which in turn builds commitment and strengthens loyalty. Your team will feel more secure in and connected to their work. This authenticity also sets an example for your team, who are more likely to be transparent when they see you doing the same. Show them that you respect and trust them enough to keep them informed. Beyond building trust, transparency helps problems get flagged early so they can be solved before they snowball. Meetings turn from boring pleasantries to meaningful conversations, opening the floor for honest and productive discussions.
“Trust, honesty, humility, transparency, and accountability are the building blocks of a positive reputation. Trust is the foundation of any relationship. ”
This module explores transparency in-depth, beginning with an exploration of what it means to be transparent as a leader in our first lesson, Leading with Transparency. We'll also discuss how to give and receive respect through accountability and transparency in Respect Through Transparency, and finally, we'll explore how to use questions to your benefit in The Power of Questions. Let’s get started!
