Bad Communication = Bad Results

Previously I have written that misunderstandings are the biggest Hidden Cost in international business. Actually they are biggest Hidden Cost in all business, and perhaps in life as well.

I shot another "Pop's Garage" video this morning. All about the larger lessons managers should learn, explained by problems I had yesterday with my Mom. Problems caused 100% because of poor communication leading to making bad assumptions.

Bad Communication = Bad Results

Who was at fault, who should be blamed? No one. Frequently no one is at fault, or both are.

Misunderstandings are so dangerous because no one knows there is a misunderstanding until the bad result caused by the misunderstanding happens. Think the Titanic: no one knew it would sink, until it did. And, as no one thought it could sink, no one questioned its sinkability. The same principles apply to communication.

There three things that can happen when you communicate. Only three. They are:

1. success: the audience clearly understands 100% of the speaker's message
2. uncertainty: the audience is unsure what the speaker's message is
3. misunderstanding: the audience thinks they clearly understand 100%, but what they understand is not what the speaker intended.

No. 2, uncertainty, is the most common outcome. No. 1, success, is the least common. And No. 3, misunderstanding, is the most dangerous.

In later posts I will flesh out more on communication in general and, in particular, ways managers and staff can ensure successful communication (as much as possible that is: successful communication is tough. Just ask my wife.).

Now it is off to town with my photos of parents' stuff, trying to put a value on things familiar and strange (including things I had no idea the function of until recently). Wish me luck.