One of the simplest but most powerful ways to build trust and engagement is to share the why behind a decision. When people understand the bigger picture, they’re more confident, proactive, and invested in the outcome.
I’ve seen this play out time and time again—whether with a team member working through a challenge or a client navigating a tough decision. Taking a moment to explain the reasoning behind something doesn’t just improve the result; it changes the way people think about their work.
The Power of Understanding “Why”
I remember a team member who was struggling with a complex report. The task itself wasn’t the issue—they had the technical skills. But without understanding why the report mattered, it felt like just another box to check.
So, we stepped back and talked about it. How the report shaped key decisions. How it ensured compliance. How it ultimately impacted the schools and libraries we serve. Suddenly, it wasn’t just a report—it was a contribution. From that point on, not only did they approach the work with more confidence, but they started finding ways to make it better.
That’s the power of transparency. When people see the purpose behind their work, they go from doing the job to owning the outcome.
Transparency Builds Trust
Sharing the reasoning behind a decision isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for strong relationships. Whether it’s with your team, your clients, or your partners, transparency signals trust and respect.
I think back to a client who once pushed back on a service recommendation. Instead of just asking them to take our word for it, we walked them through the research, the data, and the thought process behind our approach. That conversation turned what could have been a tough debate into a real partnership. They not only implemented our recommendation but thanked us for bringing them into the process.
Transparency doesn’t just prevent confusion—it strengthens collaboration, fuels innovation, and builds lasting trust.
How You Can Apply Transparency Today
As leaders, let’s commit to sharing the reasons behind our decisions. It’s a small shift, but it can make a big impact. It helps teams work smarter, not just harder. It fosters independence. And it turns everyday tasks into meaningful contributions.
What’s a time when transparency made a difference for you or your team? I’d love to hear your story—share it in the comments!
