Episode Transcript
It seems so obvious that you need to be clear when you communicate in the workplace.
I don’t think you’ll disagree with me on that.
When you’re relaying information, giving instructions, asking for assistance, delegating a task, or telling a story.
You need to be clear.
Yet you still find that your message isn’t getting across.
You assume that people know what you want. Or what you want them to do.
From your perspective, you explained it quite well.
But actually, you didn’t.
Other people don’t know what’s in your head – at least not as well as you do. They don’t know what you’re thinking.
So you have to communicate with even more clarity. More than you think is necessary.
It’s one of the biggest mistakes people make: assuming others know what you want them to do.
When in fact you haven’t communicated it clearly enough.
You can never go overboard on the clarity thing.
If you can err on the side of way too much – if we all can err on the side of way too much clarity – our work will be much more fruitful.
Your organization will be a much better place to work. And you’ll love your job that much more.
10 Ways You’ll Benefit from More Clarity in Your Engineering Communications
Here are 10 ways you benefit from more clarity in communications at work:
- You Actually Get Unambiguous Priorities
Think how much easier your engineering job would be if someone would just clarify the priorities.
It helps you be more efficient and focused. And spend more time on tasks that matter.
- You Don’t Get Stuck Doing Rework
You can get things done right the first time. A huge time saver.
Because you took the time to give (or receive) clear guidance.
- You’re That Much More Engaged
When you can eliminate uncertainty and overwhelm – caused by unclear communication – you have the freedom and motivation to be more engaged in your work.
- Misunderstandings are Eliminated
This is a biggie.
Without all the misunderstanding and friction between people – which is exhausting and unproductive – you’ll notice people are more open and easier to work with.
- You Spend Less Time in Confusion
And more time working toward the goal. It keeps projects on track and gets better results.
- You Get What You Want
Ask clearly for what you want, and you get it. Give a clear tasking and you get the results you want.
Share clearly your career message and you get the connections and opportunities you want.
- People Know Why You Do What You Do
They know your why because you clearly share your stories and motivations.
- You Have More Influence on How People See You
Since people know your why, they begin to see things from your perspective. They trust you more.
You also get clear feedback and know how to improve.
- Your Reputation is Known…Accurately
Communication with clarity means people no longer get the wrong impression of you.
You can feel the tension melt away.
- Your Work is More Satisfying
Because, well, all of these things. No more stressors from unclear communications.
Do’s and Don’ts of Communicating with Clarity in Your Engineering Job
The ways to communicate with more clarity are many. And very effective.
You’ve heard them all before.
They’re also deceptively easy. Meaning, it’s easy to think that you’re doing a great job of implementing all of them, when you’re not so much.
So, go for clarity over efficiency:
Just when you think you’ve said enough, say more.
just when you think you’re being clear, be more so.
And just when you think your listener understands, ask how you can provide more clarity.
We can work on this together, strategizing what works for you in your current job and learning communication approaches to apply long term.
Sign up for a strategy session with me here.
Here are a few tips to get you started.
- Don’t assume people know what you’re thinking.
- Don’t assume people know what you want them to do.
- Simplify your message, but include the specifics.
- Explain your desired result.
- Explain what you want to see at each milestone.
- Repeat your message – and repeat it in different ways.
- Encourage questions and dialog to raise understanding.
These tips apply whether you’re communicating as a boss or to your boss.
As a mentor or a protegee.
As a coworker or a networker.
Be mindful of what you’re saying and how. Be intentional about maximizing your listeners’ understanding.
It’s a great way to make your organization a better place to work.
It’s a great example for others to follow.
And it’s a great tactic for more efficient advancement toward your engineering career vision.
Next time on Her Engineering Career Podcast our topic will be your engineering career contribution and how you’ll make it happen.
Be sure to join me for Episode 144.
