Jan 05 09
Transparency
By Maureen Taylor
Based on what we’re all going through these days, this has to be THE theme for corporate leaders in 2009. Great leaders know they need to tell the truth to their customers, employees, partners and investors. It’s good business. And it’s really good business right now with all the fear and trepidation.
So here are a few suggestions for corporate leaders in 2009:
1. Don’t let your handlers script you. Sure, they can help, but make sure you figure out your message.
2. Understand what your constituency needs to know. Keep your finger on the pulse of what they are thinking and feeling. You need to trust your audience for this truth…and it usually doesn’t come from your direct reports. There is a lot of skirt blowing when people are afraid.
3. Candor, truth, even hard truths, is what your stakeholders desperately need. Give it to them.
4. And finally, realize that this conversation has to be consistent and clear.
Communication for today’s leaders is a hands on role. Now more than ever. It’s the key to true transparency. Take it back.
