Clear and Agreed Expectations

How often have you found yourself in a situation wondering ‘how did we get here’? ‘I thought we were on the same page’. We can go along for some time thinking we are on the same page with others, heading towards the same expectation, thinking we are taking the same steps. But it is not always the case.

We all have a different way of looking at things. That is a good thing because it would be very boring if we all thought the same. Even when things are in black and white, words on a page, it does not necessarily mean we are all reading it the same way. Recently, I have had discussions with clients regarding the Values of an organisation. Just because a word is put in front of us, that does not mean we will share the same definition of that word. With respect to the Values of an organisation, there will be behaviours which are expected to be demonstrated if you are an employee of that organisation. But what if your definition of that Value is very different and you demonstrate behaviours for that Value in a very different way?

It is that simple isn’t it? Black and white is not always black and white. Words on a page mean different things for each of us. There needs to be clarification and understanding of what the words may mean for each of us and continuing to ‘check in’ to make sure that clarification and understanding has not changed. It is not as simple as saying ‘do you understand’? Nine times out of 10 people will say yes and they really do not understand or they just do not agree with you. Sometimes, people also have their own agenda and will say all the right words but do what they want anyway.

Are expectations clear within your organisation and with your clients, suppliers and stakeholders? If not, is now the time to make sure there are clear and agreed expectations?