E29/S2 SHARER - Why sharing information pays more than hoarding it

Andrew shares insights about the importance of sharing information in the workplace.  In a story of two teams working for the same company, Andrew explains how hoarding information negatively impacted their performance. A new manager commissions research and presents data to both teams.  He introduces a solution to the inter-team rivalry problem, which involves regular rotation of team members. As a result, both teams start to work together and share knowledge, leading to exceeding their sales quota.

Andrew answers some of the most common questions about sharing information in the workplace. Before sharing information, he suggests asking, "Is this helpful and motivating for the team? Also, "Do we have the authority to share it, and could doing so potentially breach any regulations?"  Andrew explains the benefits of sharing knowledge in the workplace, such as encouraging fresh thinking, creating a learning culture, and providing a better customer experience. Andrew acknowledges the risk of losing one's job or career prospects from irresponsible information sharing.  He recommends checking the organisation's information-sharing expectations to protect its reputation. However, responsible sharing has personal benefits such as gaining respect from colleagues, becoming more visible, and supporting better decision-making.  Andrew encourages rejecting the approach of "my knowledge is power, and so I must hold on to it" and instead encourages being generous with information.

Andrew emphasizes that sharing knowledge is power, and work is all about collaboration. Regular rotation of team members and information sharing helps retain collective knowledge and improve performance.  Responsible sharing of information has personal benefits and supports better decision-making.

Can't wait for Series 2 to run its course? Then buy Andrew's new book, published on Amazon, and there's also an Audio version. Further reading and videos: Andrew recommends some useful follow-through material which you can find for each episode at

www.myhappinessatwork.com/reading/categories/research-reading

and

www.myhappinessatwork.com/watch. BOOK: The 50 Ways to Succeed at Work book is a standalone companion to Andrew Leigh's weekly podcasts. It's an essential resource for all job starters and those at work for a few years. Dip in and out and take what seems helpful.

www.myhappinessatwork.com/book