Open Door Policy

An open door policy at work means empowering employees to freely discuss job-related concerns, questions, or issues with their managers, direct supervisors, senior employees, or even company executives—whoever they feel most comfortable reaching out to and depending on the issue at hand. This open communication contributes to a positive and transparent work culture as employees feel supported by leadership and believe their voice matters.

Open Door Policy vs. Closed Door Policy

On the other hand, leadership that implements a closed door policy doesn't provide a way for employees to easily come to them with feedback, ideas, and questions. As a result, the work culture tends to be more hierarchical, formal, and private.

In short, the main difference between these two approaches is how accessible leadership is to employees. An open door policy welcomes dialogue and can build trust while a closed door policy at work can hinder open communication.

Benefits of an Open Door Policy

Choosing to implement an open door policy can help employers:

Establish Open Communication and Transparency at Work

If employees are struggling with a work assignment or interpersonal conflict, for example, management can’t help if they don’t know what’s going on. With an open door policy, leadership and employees can proactively brainstorm solutions together before challenges affect workplace efficiency and profitability.

This open communication can make working relationships more harmonious and productive. Plus, discussions with leadership can help individual contributors understand the bigger-picture strategy that influences their day-to-day responsibilities.

Boost Employee Engagement

When employees feel trusted and heard, they’re more likely to be highly engaged at work. Engaged employees take pride in their work, strive to put their best foot forward each day, and are content working with their team and for their company.

Higher levels of employee engagement foster a positive work culture because individuals are more productive and loyal to the company. When employees are committed to the company’s mission, goals, and values, they’re inspired and driven to contribute to the overall success of the business.

Improve Employee Morale

By welcoming employees’ questions and feedback, leadership can help boost employee morale. As opposed to feeling like a number, employees feel respected and valued as individuals when their managers are invested in their wellbeing and want to hear their fresh ideas on how the company can improve.

What’s more, high employee morale has positive ripple effects on retention. While some turnover is inevitable, creating a positive and democratic work environment will encourage more people to stay, saving HR the time and money needed to continually hire new people. Plus, employees who stick around will be more likely to want to progress in their career path to help reach personal and company goals.

Open Door Policy Examples

If you’re looking to set up an open door policy but not sure how to get started, here are some practical ways leaders at companies of all industries and sizes can become more accessible to their employees:

• Set office hours. While you do value open communication, you also have a lot on your plate. It’s important to set boundaries so your employees aren’t constantly coming into your office (or instant messaging you if your company uses a hybrid or remote model) when you need to focus. Try to pick a consistent day(s) during the week for employees to stop by during a designated block of time.
• Delegate to managers. If you’re a C-suite executive at a larger company, it may not be feasible to meet with every employee. Instead, encourage managers to have regular one-on-ones with their direct reports to gather feedback and meet with the supervisors afterward to develop a corresponding action plan if needed.
• Specify appropriate topics. For example, you may be open to helping employees resolve conflicts and efficiently work with other stakeholders, but make it clear that an open door policy is not an invitation to gossip. Other common matters that would be productive to discuss may include work assignments, interpretation of company policies, and innovative ideas.