
Open Communication
What does Open Communication mean at the University?
As a colleague
I am open and honest in my communications. I have the courage to speak up and remain calm under pressure.
I am successful when...
• My explanations are clear, concise and direct
• I invite feedback, listening to others’ viewpoints and valuing their contribution
• I have the courage to speak up and have difficult conversations, responding calmly and patiently
• I manage expectations, keeping people up-to-date and being open about what I can and cannot do
When leading people
I promote and demonstrate open and honest communication. When conversations are challenging I demonstrate resilience and help others to stay calm.
I am successful when...
• I enable genuine, two-way communication, ensuring all voices are valued and heard
• I communicate transparently, providing timely updates to others and being honest about challenges
• I am open when I get things wrong, accepting my mistakes
• I am a role model for integrity, saying what needs to be said, taking into account sensitivities, and doing what needs to be done
• I show resilience during challenging times, maintaining a realistic perspective and helping others to keep calm
When leading the organisation
I am consistent, direct and diplomatic when communicating. I encourage debate and enable voices to be heard.
I am successful when...
• I maintain a consistent message across different groups and contexts
• I am respectfully direct, calling out behaviour that needs challenging, including my own
• I encourage honest conversation and debate to face issues head on
• I am reassuring, confident and diplomatic, taking time to construct calm, measured responses
• I enable all voices to speak and be heard, not only those who shout the loudest
Next steps
If you’re keen to develop in this area, you can explore a wide range of opportunities available to you at the University on the Learning Management System (LMS). Here are some suggestions to take a look at:
- Leadership Development: Candid conversations for line managers
- Leadership Programme: New line manager fundamentals
