Knowledge

Sir Francis Bacon said, "Knowledge is Power." And while that's very true to a degree, it is really what we do with that knowledge that is powerful.

Knowledge that is kept to oneself helps no one but the ego of those that hoard it. On the other hand, knowledge that is disseminated not only empowers, but also enlightens. In the absence of information, people naturally speculate. They fill the information void with rumor, conjecture, and hearsay. How far you let that go, as a leader, is what separates the true leaders from the wannabes. As I've said before, a true leader trusts their people, even if only to say, "I don't know." It's only in an environment of transparency that the group can mature and grow.

Information is like flowing water. Regardless of how secretive you may want to be with it, it usually leaks out one way or another, so you may as well address it head on.

It's a true testament to a leader (and an organization) to share information so that everyone benefits.