Johari Window
I had once worked at a manufacturing company in the Philippines as a human resources supervisor. One of my jobs was to ensure the good camaraderie among the employees. Almost everyday I had employees in my office telling me about their various issues with their colleagues. As HR personnel, it was my duty to listen and help them resolve whatever conflicts they had in relation to their work. I had to open part of myself to them so as to gain trust and provide assistance.
In order to build relationship with others, I have to communicate with them. Communication is essential especially if it is still at a ”getting to know you” stage. It is a better way to start a good relationship and also a way to gain trust. One way to get to know the other person is to be open.
Using the Johari Window as basis of my level of openness, I most likely belong between the “open-receptive person” and the “pumper.” My level of openness depends on the person I encounter. I am very much transparent around the people whom I am comfortable with, such as my family and a few trusted friends. They know me very well that I do not have to pretend or hide anything from them. It’s not the same however, with the people I don’t know very well, who are just merely acquaintances. Of course you don’t want to pour your heart out to people whom you don’t know very well. There are limitations. Openness can range from very little to complete one. It varies from situation to situation.