What does having an open door policy at work really mean?

An open-door policy means every manager’s door is open to every employee. The purpose is to encourage open communication, feedback, and discussion about any matter of importance to an employee. Employees can take their workplace concerns, questions, or suggestions outside their own chain of command without worrying.

Companies adopt an open door policy to develop employee trust and to make sure important information and feedback reach managers who can use it to make changes and improvements. An open-door policy is normally communicated in the employee handbook.

When a company has an open-door policy, employees are free to approach or meet with the senior leadership of the organization. Companies are wise to train managers and executive staff about how the policy ought to work. Otherwise, it can seem employees are encouraged to go around their bosses and tattle on other employees. And if you are not careful…