The Open Door Policy

The Open Door Policy is when all upper management (CEO, supervisors, managers, presidents, vice presidents, etc.) leave their office doors open in order for all other employees to enter whenever necessary. Every employee should have access to every branch of management. Allowing for face-to-face discussion rather than the e-mail/phone call runaround, this type of policy encourages open communication between employees and management.

If you have a concern at work, it is your job to inform your supervisor of this problem, so that it can be dealt with accordingly. You may also approach the management with complaints, observations and criticism without fear of backlash because in the end, all areas of discussion should lead to improvement.

This policy is also helpful when your problem deals directly with your supervisor. Addressing them may not be appropriate if they are the one you are filing the complaint against. The Open Door Policy allows you to discuss your issues with members higher on the ladder than your supervisor in order to get your situation rectified. The first step should be to resolve issues with the lowest level of management necessary though.