Communication is sharing of information that results in mutual understanding. How many times have you thought that because you sent an email or text, mailed a letter, or posted something on your web site that you have communicated? The fact of the matter is that you only sent a message. And if the receiver acknowledged receipt that's still not enough. You want their feedback. You need to know if the receiver's understanding of the message was the same as yours.
Recently, a client posted some survey results and assumed that communication had taken place. Some staff saw the results and interpreted them differently from leadership. Other staff had not viewed the web site and didn't know the results were posted. Needless to say, the client now had to spend time with both groups; clarifying the message with one group, and making the other group aware of the message.
When you don't ensure mutual understanding, there is the likelihood of misunderstanding, confusion, and misdirection which can lead you to spending more time on the message than planned or necessary.
Make sure when you send a message, you verify that it is received and understood.You can do this by seeking clarification and asking others to paraphrase. What strategies have you employed to ensure you have communicated?
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