Transparency, or a lack of it, hits the headlines occasionally, and when it does, I scratch my head.  Common sense tells me there is more to what’s written, but why isn’t more information shared? Where is the transparency?

Without sharing specific examples in the news that bug me, allow me to reiterate the importance of transparency for all leaders.

Transparency requires leaders to be open and honest—no hidden agendas. When leaders act with transparency and communicate that way, they are viewed by those they lead as credible and trustworthy. They also earn respect.

Leadership Tip
Practice transparency to build trust and provide the leadership that others want to follow.

Here are nine situations in which being transparent is important for a leader:

• When a problem surfaces.
• When stating why a decision was made a certain way.
• When a change is being made.
• When uncertainty is present.
• When reasons for next steps have to be communicated.
• When a challenge to the business surfaces.
• When giving feedback.
• When setting expectations.
• When providing updates on ongoing situations.

If you want to earn trust and respect as a leader, you must be completely transparent in your communications and your actions with no hidden agendas, real or perceived.