Podcast Summary: Coaching for Leaders – Episode 741: Getting Better at Transparency, with Minda Hartz

Introduction to Transparency in Leadership

In Episode 741 of Coaching for Leaders, host Dave Stachowiak delves into the critical role of transparency in effective leadership. Joining him is Minda Hartz, a bestselling author and workplace consultant renowned for her expertise in building trust within organizations. The conversation sets the stage by highlighting the ubiquitous emphasis on transparency in leadership discourse and acknowledges the challenges leaders face in genuinely implementing it within their teams.

Navigating Economic Shifts with Transparency

Minda shares her personal experience during a tumultuous economic period, illustrating the complexities of maintaining transparency when business priorities shift. She recounts a time when her company, previously experiencing growth and providing annual raises, faced economic downturns that forced a reevaluation of compensation strategies.

"I had to be honest, even though I know they saw the landscape. But as a leader, I had to be vulnerable and transparent and provide clarity and honesty." (02:32)

Instead of concealing the challenges, Minda chose to engage her team in open dialogue about potential cutbacks and alternative solutions, such as reducing hours or exploring new revenue streams. This approach fostered a sense of trust and gratitude among her staff, as evidenced by a colleague’s appreciation for her transparency.

Building Trust through Honesty and Clarity

The discussion emphasizes that transparency extends beyond merely sharing information—it involves admitting when leaders lack certain answers and maintaining honesty about uncertainties.

"Transparency isn't just, I'm going to tell you what's happening A to Z. It's also saying, hey, I can't provide this information right now." (06:49)

Dave expands on this by distinguishing between complete information sharing and acknowledging the limits of what can be communicated, stressing that recognizing "blank spots" can be as beneficial as the information itself.

The Role of Reciprocity in Trust

Minda introduces the concept of reciprocity as a foundational element of trust, highlighting that trust must be mutual between leaders and employees. She argues that expecting transparency from staff should be matched by leaders being equally transparent about their own roles and decisions.

"Trust is a two way street. So if we expect our staff to be transparent, why wouldn't we want to provide that too?" (08:56)

This reciprocal relationship ensures that trust is not one-sided, fostering a healthier and more productive workplace environment.

Follow Through as a Trust Language

A pivotal part of the conversation revolves around the importance of follow-through in maintaining trust. Minda shares a personal anecdote about a mentor, Chuck, whose consistent support exemplified reliable follow-through, thereby solidifying trust.

"Follow through is just such a great trust language. And it's something that could have easily been eroded in our relationship for him to say he wanted to help me." (24:44)

She emphasizes that keeping promises, even when circumstances change, is crucial for sustaining trust. Transparency about one's ability to follow through, including apologies and updated commitments, also plays a significant role.

The Impact of Timeliness

Timeliness emerges as another critical component of transparency. Minda and Dave discuss how providing information promptly can significantly affect trust levels within a team. For instance, Minda recalls a manager who informed his team six months in advance about impending layoffs, allowing ample time for preparation and reducing anxiety.

"Had he told us that the day before…the morning before the layoffs, that wouldn't have been timely." (22:50)

Conversely, delayed communication can lead to confusion and erode trust, as illustrated by Dave’s personal experience with a promotion that was not communicated in a timely manner.

Rebuilding Trust

Minda reflects on her evolving understanding of trust, particularly the possibility of rebuilding it after it has been damaged. She advocates for using trust languages, like follow-through, to restore trust once broken.

"I believe that we can rebuild trust. We can make trust great again." (32:10)

This perspective underscores the resilience of trust when actively nurtured through consistent and honest communication.

Practical Steps for Leaders

Throughout the episode, Minda provides actionable strategies for leaders aiming to enhance transparency and trust within their organizations:

1. Clear Job Descriptions: Ensure that roles and expectations are well-defined and communicated to prevent misunderstandings.

2. Open Dialogue: Encourage conversations about changes and uncertainties, allowing employees to voice concerns and seek clarity.

3. Consistent Follow-Through: Commit to promises and, when unable to do so, communicate transparently about the reasons and next steps.

4. Timely Communication: Share important information promptly to enable employees to prepare and respond effectively.

5. Empowerment Through Support: Provide resources and coaching to help employees navigate challenges, demonstrating a genuine investment in their growth.

"These are demonstrations of trust that we can implement right now." (17:09)

Conclusion

Episode 741 offers a comprehensive exploration of transparency as a multifaceted trust language essential for effective leadership. Minda Hartz and Dave Stachowiak highlight that true transparency involves honesty, clarity, reciprocity, follow-through, and timeliness. By embracing these principles, leaders can foster a trustworthy and resilient organizational culture, ultimately driving productivity and employee satisfaction.

Key Takeaways:

• Transparency is essential but multifaceted, encompassing both the sharing and withholding of information when necessary.
• Building trust requires mutual reciprocity between leaders and employees.
• Consistent follow-through and timely communication are critical in maintaining and rebuilding trust.
• Practical steps, such as clear job descriptions and open dialogue, can significantly enhance transparency within teams.

Notable Quotes:

• “Transparency is a two way street. So if we expect our staff to be transparent, why wouldn't we want to provide that too?” – Minda Hartz (08:56)
• “Follow through is just such a great trust language.” – Minda Hartz (24:44)
• “Trust is a two way street. So if we expect our staff or direct reports to be transparent… why wouldn't we want to provide that too?” – Minda Hartz (08:56)

Timestamps:

• Introduction to Transparency: [00:00] – [01:55]
• Navigating Economic Shifts: [02:32] – [04:05]
• Building Trust through Honesty: [05:51] – [07:41]
• Reciprocity in Trust: [08:15] – [09:59]
• Follow Through: [24:44] – [31:22]
• Timeliness: [20:51] – [24:01]
• Rebuilding Trust: [32:10] – [33:26]
• Practical Steps: Interspersed throughout the conversation

Further Listening Recommendations:

• Episode 539: The Path toward Trusting Relationships with Edgar and Peter Schein.
• Episode 655: How to Help Difficult Conversations Go Better with Sheila Heen.
• Episode 708: Preparing for a Conversation with Someone You Don't Trust with Charles Feltman.

Access these episodes and more by visiting coaching4leaders.com.