Clarity

Clarity is always important in terms of the communication you have with others, but is magnified when in a leadership position. All too often leaders walk away from conversations with a strong belief that there is a clear understanding of their goal, strategy or initiative without gaining confirmation form those that are ultimately tasked with execution.

This can be quickly rectified with a summation of the conversation and the main points conveyed back to you as the leader from those to whom you have just communicated. This goes one step beyond the typical use of, "Does that make sense?", to end a conversation and supposedly gain assurance on a complete understanding of a message. I have found that this practice can lead to a deeper conversation on certain points of the intended message to achieve complete understanding. This can be critical when you are dealing with delicate situations such as a progressive disciple process. This extra step also removes trepidation on the part of the recipient of your message to nod in agreement that they understand you, when they truly do not have a complete comprehension of what it is you are asking or communicating.

Reflect on the last two to three conversations you had with your folks today. Can you say with 100% accuracy that you accomplished complete clarity? Now go back and find out. How did you do?