Leadership and Assumptions - I Thought You Knew About That

At the risk of stating the obvious, effective communication, especially in business, is critical for the outcomes we are seeking.

But I’m sure you knew that. Well, I assume you did.

In connecting ideas and concepts, instructions and requests in our communication, assumptions seem to have become the currency of communication as we seek shortcuts.

We ‘assume’ the other person or people know what’s required, have listened carefully to what we were saying, have all the facts at their disposal - and of course, likely, have read our mind.

Assumptions are a shortcut which can often be dangerous

Assumptive thinking often misses clarifying all aspects of the issue.

We’re all guilty of making assumptions. (and there is one right there - I’m assuming we’re all guilty. ) 

How often have you said “I thought you knew.“ ?

So how do leaders avoid making assumptions? And how do they ensure that those they are leading and not guilty of making assumptions?

We define leadership as a ‘relationship’. Because it’s a relationship, its incumbent on the leader to make sure that his or her communication is clear. Importantly from that, that there’s no outcome or action as a result, based on or arising out of misinformation, uncertainty… and assumptions.

Because genuineness is a key element in the relationship, the leader is going to ensure that he or she is open and is sharing correct information and in doing so those he or she is leading, will mirror that behavior most likely.

The leader will ensure in his or her communication to the team and beyond that all the stakeholders receive the absolute correct information from him or her.

Clarity about all the information that’s being shared is essential.

When leaders challenge assumptions, it develops greater ‘depth of thinking’ in team members.

And rather than assuming that this information is helpful to you, I’d be most grateful if you could spend a little time letting me know.

Together - as leaders - let’s make clarity, without the fog of assumptions, the cornerstone of effective communications.