How to Be Transparent – Without Oversharing

The phrase “transparency is key” is popular for a reason: Being transparent is a solid way to build trust. However, there is a fine line between transparency and oversharing. To help you better differentiate between the two, here are a few helpful tips.

Think Before You Speak

Easily one of our most important pieces of advice: Think before you speak. Sometimes we find ourselves in situations of oversharing by saying something right as we think it. So instead, take a minute to consider the impact that what you say will have on other people (and yourself).

Process the Information

One reason we may overshare is that we’re still processing the information, which results in relaying our thoughts to someone else about a subject in real time. For this reason, before speaking on a topic, make sure you’ve fully processed the information and know what you want to say about it. The more thought you give to something before you say it, the less likely you will overshare.

Keep Things Factual

When you share information, especially in a professional setting, it’s important not to let emotions cloud your judgment and, instead, let the facts speak for themselves. Don’t deviate from factual information to discuss the way you feel about something.

Rely On Collaboration

In a business capacity, building a collaborative environment invites transparency without giving you the chance to overshare. When you work together, you allow for teamwork instead of letting one person control what’s said and done. As such, the likelihood of oversharing decreases.

Be Aware of Authority

If you are in a position of power, remember that people look up to you and hold you to a high standard both inside and outside of work. This means you should be particularly careful about sharing personal information – and that includes on social media. Keep things professional, always erring on the side of caution.

Avoid Being Secretive

Whenever possible, don’t keep secrets from your employees or co-workers. Of course, there will sometimes be private or confidential information, but it’s generally better to be honest. There is also a fine line between secrecy and transparency, so make sure you think through the information at hand and do the right thing with it.