Transparency Requires Intent and Clarity

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Transparency goes beyond mere visibility; it involves a commitment to honesty and the absence of deception. One can be transparent about their motives and intentions, even when withholding certain information. It's crucial to communicate the reasons for this lack of disclosure to build trust. However, there are moments where acknowledging a lack of transparency can breach trust, especially if it involves confidential matters that should remain undisclosed to others. Thus, true transparency is about navigating the fine line between sharing and withholding information responsibly.

Trust smooths the way for collaboration, conflict resolution, and influence. But how do you build this asset? And how do you repair it when you’ve missed a series of important deadlines or otherwise messed up?

Organizational psychologist Ruchi Sinha talks with a listener who’s struggling to restore skeptics’ confidence in her and her team. Ruchi shares the three elements of trust and how to convey each one. She also offers advice on what to do if you’ve failed to acknowledge a broken promise and how to communicate practically when confidentiality prevents you from being totally transparent.

Guest expert:

Ruchi Sinha is an associate professor of organizational behavior at the University of South Australia Business School. Her research explores how voice, conflict, and power dynamics influence work relationships and performance outcomes.

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