Why Do We Keep Our Doors Open?

What is it?

Imagine your boss’s office has a door. Usually, that door is closed like a little castle wall. When the open door policy is in place, that door stays wide open all day.

Why do we do it?

When the door is closed, people feel shy. They think, "Oh, my boss looks busy. I better not bother them." But when the door is open, it feels like an invitation. It says, "Come on in! I am here for you."

What happens next?

Employees walk in more often. They ask small questions without worrying about looking silly. Bosses hear what is really going on because they can hear conversations over the wall. It makes everyone feel closer and happier at work.

Think of it like a kitchen with no door. You see your family having fun, so you join them easily.

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Examples

A worker sees their manager laughing with a colleague through the open door and feels brave enough to walk in.
The boss leaves a cup of coffee on the table outside her office as a signal that she is ready to chat.
New employees feel less scared because they can see their leader sitting at her desk, not hidden away.

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Categories: Culture · workplace culture· social psychology· communication