95% of the time I am in my office I keep the door open. I only close it if I am having a confidential meeting or need some brief quiet time. I do this because I am the executive director and I want everyone I work with to know I am available and open to them. I do it because I want to say “hi” to my co-workers and ask them how they are doing when they walk past my door. I want people to see me working. I tell all of the new team members that if they see my door open they are welcome to pop in and ask me a question.

Not only have I always kept my my door open but I have recently started keeping candy right by the door. Cool things happen when I leave my door open. My team members check in throughout the day. They ask me how my days is and I get to find out how they are doing. If they can’t find their supervisor I can help them with a quick question. Our team members who are working with children bring the kids by to grab a piece of chocolate. I get to see a little person smile and laugh. If there happens to be a disturbance in the building I hear it and get to be part of the “all hands on deck” team. A couple weeks ago one of our counselors walked by, handed me a soft drink, said “cheers, ” and walked on down the hall. I have been blessed as people have gotten to know me and I have gotten to know them.

There are many ways a leader can send a message to their organization. Some of the ways are simple such as smiling, remembering everyone’s name, or… leaving the door open when you are in your office. Here is a summary of the messages an open door can send,

• I am here for you.
• I am working hard to make our organization better able to accomplish its mission.
• I do not have anything I’m trying to hide from you.
• I am interested in what is going on out there.
• I want to know what is going on out there.
• I want to be part of what is going on out there.
• I am part of the team.
• I am available.
• I want to interact with you.
• I am approachable.

To all my leadership and management friends out there, leave your door open when you are in your office. Try putting a container of chocolate near the entrance. You may be surprised by the subtle but meaningful difference it makes for you and your team.