Think about how many times you’ve watched a television show or movie where someone walks into the boss’s office and hears those familiar words.
“Close the door.”
Immediately, you know something is about to happen.
Maybe someone is getting fired. Maybe there’s a serious conversation coming. Maybe the employee has made a mistake, and the boss isn’t particularly happy about it.
Or perhaps the boss looks up and says, “Have a seat.”
Then there’s the dreaded, “Don’t sit down. This won’t take long.”
Wow. Think about how much has been communicated without much being said. A door closes. A chair remains empty. The tone shifts. Suddenly, the entire atmosphere in the room changes.
We’ve watched scenes like these for years. But here’s what I want you to think about: How often are we creating those same feelings in our own businesses without even realizing it? And what does that mean for those of us working in the printing, graphics, and promotional products industries?
The Open-Door Policy That Isn’t Really Open
Over the years, I’ve worked with business owners, executives, managers, sales professionals, and organizations of all sizes. And I’ve heard one statement more times than I can count.
“My door is always open.”
Sounds good, doesn’t it? But what does that really mean?
Does it mean employees can physically walk through the door? Or does it mean they genuinely feel comfortable doing so?
Those are two very different things.
Read this full article on Printing Impressions, a publication of PRINTING United Alliance, ASI’s strategic partner.
