Don’t Assume

What is assumed is often what is most important.

It’s an interesting thought. We often assume that others around us have a base understanding of something that we understand, so we launch into a higher level of conversation with them on the subject. 90% of the time, when they don’t have that base understanding, they won’t ask you to explain because they don’t want to look dumb. This mistake often causes leaders to think they’ve communicated well and been understood, when they really haven’t.

There are two things that fix this - the leader making sure their communication is simpler than they think it should be OR the ignorant (and brave) person who is willing to admit they don’t understand.

So, leaders, think about this concept when you are communicating, and even more important, encourage and thank those who ask clarifying questions. Don’t punish them or make them feel stupid. You might even consider asking for a raise of hands of others who also didn’t understand when one of those questions is asked. You may find that a large percentage of people didn’t understand.