5 Bullets to Kill the Misunderstandings at Workplace
Unexpected, unavoidable sometimes, but avoidable if you stay cold-blooded.
I never met anyone in my 29 years of work life who never encountered misunderstanding at the office, we all faced it, frequently or rarely.
In today’s fast-paced workplace, misunderstandings among colleagues can impede productivity and strain relationships. However, with proactive strategies and effective communication, we can minimize these challenges. I have 5 recommendations for you to try that I have learned from my life. I confess that I didn’t succeed always but I found it extremely fruitful, most of the time.
1. Look at the mirror first and ask
It’s better to play safe first. Ask yourself: “Am I the root cause of this misunderstanding?” Perhaps, you assumed incorrectly that they understood correctly, when in fact, they misunderstood. Avoid assumptions by confirming colleagues’ understanding of expectations. Proactive clarification brings clarity and cultivates a culture of open communication.
Stephen Covey advises, “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.”
2. Address Issues Directly:
Sooner is better (not always). Encourage open dialogue to address misunderstandings promptly.
Amy Edmondson’s research reveals the importance of psychological safety in facilitating effective communication. Constructive conversations ensure transparency and trust.
3. You like it or not, Diversity and Differences are there:
People are different not because they have chosen to be different, they are not built by your DNA-type. All humans are uniquely designed, so it is obvious to encounter misunderstanding. So better not to get surprised or upset if you are misunderstood, rather deal with patience. View diversity as an opportunity for growth.
Peter Drucker emphasizes listening to what isn’t being said. Actively seeking alternative perspectives bridges gaps and fosters inclusivity.
4. Navigate Difficult Relationships with Caution
There is something inexplicable — for instance, you simply can’t stand working with someone at the office, but you can’t avoid the person— just unbearable. In such cases, exercise extra caution by doing: 1. Prefer written communication over verbal, and 2. ensure there is a witness present during verbal interactions with this special colleague. This approach minimizes misinterpretation and keeps a strategic door open for further clarification.
5. Exercise Patience and Persistence
Sooner is not better (sometimes). Recognize that some misunderstandings require time to resolve. Take your time until the ring time arrives.
Maya Angelou’s wisdom encourages maintaining a positive outlook and persevering through challenges.
Misunderstandings may be inevitable, but they need not derail workplace harmony. By clarifying expectations, promoting open dialogue, embracing diversity, navigating challenging relationships carefully, and exercising patience, office executives can navigate misunderstandings effectively.
As leaders, it is our responsibility to cultivate a culture of communication and understanding, nurturing a productive and harmonious work environment.
//Syed Akhteruzzaman | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X |
