An open door policy in the workplace means giving employees the right to openly discuss job-related concerns, questions or issues with their managers, direct supervisors, senior employees or even company executives – whoever they feel most comfortable with and depending on the issue at hand. This open communication contributes to a positive and transparent work culture because employees feel supported by leadership and believe that their voices matter.

Open Door Policy vs. Closed Door Policy

On the other hand, a leader who enforces a closed-door policy does not give employees a way to easily approach them with feedback, ideas, and questions. As a result, the work culture is 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 in the workplace can hinder open communication.

Benefits of the Open Door Policy

Implementing an open door policy can help employers:

Establish open communication and transparency in the workplace

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

This open communication can make work relationships more harmonious and productive. Also, discussions with leadership can help individual contributors understand big-picture strategy that impacts their day-to-day responsibilities.

Increase employee engagement

When employees feel trusted and listened to, they are more  likely to be interested in their work  . Interested employees take pride in their work, strive to do their best every day, and are satisfied working with their team and their company.

High levels of employee engagement  promote 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 are motivated and inspired to contribute to the overall success of the business.

improve employee morale

By welcoming employee 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 invest in their well-being and want to hear their new ideas about how the company can be improved.

In addition, high employee morale  has a positive effect on retention.  While some  changes are inevitable, creating a positive and democratic work environment will encourage more people to stay, saving HR the time and money needed to constantly hire new people. Plus, employees who remain  will want to progress in their career path  to help achieve personal and company goals. 

examples of open door policy

If you want to establish an open door policy but aren't sure how to get started, here are some practical ways leaders of companies of all industries and sizes can become more accessible to their employees:

• Set office hours.  While you value open communication, you also have a lot of work to do. It's important to set boundaries so that your employees don't constantly come into your office when you need to focus (or don't send you instant messages if your company uses a hybrid or remote model). Try choosing a certain day during the week for employees to stop by during a designated time.
• Assign tasks to managers.  If you're a C-suite executive at a large company, it may not be possible to meet with every employee. Instead, encourage managers to have regular one-on-one meetings with their direct reporters to gather feedback and, if necessary, meet with supervisors to develop a corresponding action plan.
• Assign appropriate topics.  For example, you may be willing to help employees resolve conflicts and work efficiently with other stakeholders, but make it clear that the open door policy does not invite gossip. Other common matters that would be productive to discuss may include work assignments, explanations of company policies, and innovative ideas.