Especially in tough times, execs must build workers' trust. A sure way to miss the boat? Go in disguise to get information — like top guns on the CBS reality show "Undercover Boss." This sends the wrong message, experts say...

...They want reality, not a reality show, says Anne Herman, a consultant for HR firm Kenexa Research Institute: "In large global firms, there's often a lack of awareness among top execs of how policy translates into operations—how it affects lower-level managers and workers. Firms should have feedback channels for managers and employees to share concerns. This cuts the need for (bosses) to hide to get the truth as they do on 'Undercover.'"