Be Unambiguous

Leaders who are surprised and frustrated in employee performance often set very clear expectations, but they fail to communicate them effectively.

George Bernard Shaw’s quote, "The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place," is a valuable reminder for leaders.

Unambiguous conversations are essential for supporting people and driving performance. When leaders have clear and direct conversations with their employees, they ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals.

Some tips for having unambiguous conversations:

• Be clear and concise. State your expectations clearly and in plain language.

• Be specific. Provide specific examples of what you are looking for.

• Be direct. Don't beat around the bush. Get to the point and be upfront about your expectations.

• Be open to feedback. Ask your employees for questions or feedback on your expectations.

• Follow up. Make sure to follow up with your employees to ensure that they understand your expectations and so that you can provide support as needed.

Additional tips for leaders who want to improve their communication skills:

• Be an active listener. Pay attention and ask clarifying questions.

• Be empathetic. Try to see things from your employees' perspectives.

• Be respectful. Treat your employees with respect and dignity. We shouldn’t rush to give an employee a lecture when they could use our support.

• Be consistent. Be consistent in your communication style and expectations.

In becoming more effective communicators, leaders can create a more positive and productive work environment where teams and employees can grow and thrive.