Hey Mind-Labbers,
An amusing incident involving my family prompted me to reflect on the critical role of clear communication in the business world.
During a delightful dinner on a cruise, my daughters, Kay and Gaby, were enthusiastic about enjoying some post-meal entertainment. Here’s a glimpse into their conversation:
Kay: “After dinner, I’m thinking bar, pool, and dancing.
Gaby: “That sounds awesome!”
Kay: “I’m so excited, let’s go right after dessert.”
Gaby: “That’s fine, but I want to go back to the room to get my swimsuit on.”
Kay: “For what?”
Gaby: “The bar, pool, and dancing.”
Kay (laughing): “I meant go to the bar and PLAY pool and dance.”
Gaby (disappointed): “Oh, no, I’m not doing that. I thought you meant swimming, pool bar, and dancing.”
Now, you might wonder, what does this have to do with business? Well, it made me ponder how often we communicate what we believe to be crystal clear instructions, only for the other party to interpret it entirely differently. In our case, the miscommunication was harmless and provided a good laugh, but in business, a misunderstanding could lead to substantial financial losses, potentially costing thousands or even millions of dollars.
So, here are five strategies to ensure clarity in your business conversations:
1. Be Explicit: Don’t assume that others understand your intentions. State your expectations clearly and explicitly.
2. Confirm Understanding: Encourage the other party to summarize what they’ve understood. This helps identify any discrepancies early on.
3. Use Visual Aids: Whenever possible, use visuals or diagrams to illustrate your point. A picture truly can be worth a thousand words.
4. Avoid Jargon: Minimize the use of industry-specific jargon, as it can lead to confusion. Speak in plain, straightforward language.
5. Follow-Up in Writing: After important discussions or negotiations, send a follow-up email summarizing the key points and agreements. This provides a written record and a chance for clarification if needed.
Remember, a small miscommunication today can lead to significant consequences down the road. Take the time to clarify.
Wishing you all successful and clear conversations in your business ventures!