Openness Essential For Effective Leadership #

The vast majority of academics and industry professionals agree that openness is essential for effective leadership.

2 Timothy 2:15 — Make every effort to present yourself before God as a proven worker who does not need to be ashamed, teaching the message of truth accurately. 

Several books on leadership have parts and chapters specifically dedicated to the topic of openness. Unless you work for a spy agency, openness is often one of the top attributes that employers look for in prospective executives. Naturally, problems may arise even for organisations that have been established on a basis of secrecy when there is a lack of openness.

The trait of transparent leadership is beneficial to an institution. However, why? What does a transparent pastor encourage within the framework of a local church, as compared to a pastor who is not open? What are the benefits of having open leaders, and what are the drawbacks of having secretive leaders?

Transparent leaders inspire charity, whereas secretive leaders create unneeded financial inquiries.  #

Donors are likely to be more giving to your church if they are aware of how their contributions are being used. A church does not need to be severe in its practices to practise good stewardship. However, effective stewards constantly practise transparency.

While secretive leaders instil a fear of failure in their followers, transparent leaders inspire the congregation to take calculated chances.  #

It should come as no surprise that leaders strive to minimise the likelihood of failing. And falling short due to sin is never acceptable. On the other hand, if your group never has any setbacks, it indicates that nobody is contributing in any way. Worse than that, disguising faults will cause the strength of a church to deteriorate, which would eventually lead to the church’s demise. 

2 Peter 1:15 — Indeed, I will also make every effort that, after my departure, you have a testimony of these things. 

A culture in which it is okay to make mistakes may be developed when individuals and teams practise transparency toward one another. When you strive for greatness, you should expect to have setbacks along the path. Pastors who are transparent encourage their workers and ministry leaders to take risks and learn from their mistakes.

While secretive leaders open the door to rumours and gossip, transparent leaders foster an atmosphere that is light-hearted and humorous.  #

More laughter is had when one is free to be themselves. A spirit of lightheartedness is fostered across a whole ministry when everyone working there is honest about who they are. On the other hand, gossip thrives on rumours and hidden information. The spread of rumours is encouraged when there is a lack of openness. 

When a ministry team has fun together, they are typically able to do more for the spread of the gospel. It is also embarrassing to be the only one laughing in a room full of people who are just staring at nothing. Laugh more together as a result.

Secretive leaders foster a culture of mistrust inside their communities, in contrast to transparent leaders who urge responsibility.  #

Transparency and accountability go hand in hand. Secrecy creates suspicions. Authentic openness will always result in some kind of responsibility. Church leaders who are open and honest tend to lean toward more rigorous accountability structures. Those who attempt to hide the truth almost always have the intention of exaggerating its significance.

What is the difference between keeping a secret and keeping something confidential? #

 The purpose of maintaining confidentiality is to help and protect another individual or group of individuals. Maintaining your privacy is an effective means of self-defence. Keeping someone’s trust is a selfless act. Being secretive is a selfish act. You have a lot to gain by being open and honest, and a lot to lose by keeping things hidden.

2 Peter 3:14 — Therefore, dear friends, since you are waiting for these things, strive to be found at peace, without spot or blemish, when you come into his presence. 

Blessings,

Shaliach.