I just have to relay two incidents that occurred because they resulted in wasted time and frustration because of lack of clear communications. Allow me to share.
First Annoying Situation
Someone sent me a text message telling me to check my e-mail for a story that she sent. Now, she didn’t say which story or the topic, or which e-mail address to check. Here’s how the text message conversation took place.
Marcie: “To which account did you send it?”
No response
Marcie: “What is the topic?”
Person: “Ck your email”
At this point, I’m getting annoyed because you’re asking me to do something with little instruction. Also, the last e-mail I received from that person came at least an hour earlier.
Marcie: “I don’t have anything which is why I’m asking. I’ve checked both my accounts.”
After a few more comments, I get specific information. Seriously? That was the biggest waste of time ever.
First of all, if it were that serious, you should have called me.
Secondly, how are you going to get stinky with me when YOU’RE vague in YOUR instruction?
Thirdly, did I mention that was a big waste of time ??
Second Scenario
This same person left a voice mail message stating that she saw a typo in something that was previously posted. She did tell me in which post she saw it, but there were no other details. I checked out the story but I didn’t see the error. So, again, that was a waste of my time due to lack of direction.
Here are my lessons from dealing with this person:
- Keep asking questions until you get the answer you’re seeking.
- Call the person. This would alleviate a lot of aggravation on the parts of both parties. And it will help save relationships because people interpret tones in messages.
- Be sure you’re specific when you speak, explain, request or provide feedback. That will save a lot of time and frustration.
- When you can’t say what you want to the person, blog it!
Thanks for reading my rant. Have a great weekend.
Image: planetminecraft