The other day I was having a conversation with a client and she was upset with the person who was planning an event for her. The next morning I was having a call with the event planner. From each of them I was hearing how the other one was not doing what they needed to be doing.
I asked each of them if they were communicating and sharing what was going on and asking for what they needed. From each of them I got the same answer. “Yes, I’ve sent emails.”
No matter how good our writing skills are, email is still a one dimensional form of communication. We rely so much on email as a form of communication that we often times think we are having a conversation with someone, especially if we have asked a clear question and the other person replied with a clear answer.
There are times though that we find ourselves in an ongoing email exchange that is going nowhere, information is lacking and answers are not being provided. My rule of thumb, when an email comes back with either an unclear answer or another question unrelated to the initial question, is to pick up the phone and call the person. It’s time for a conversation, a back and forth exchange of ideas and questions.
So the next time you find yourself in an ongoing email exchange that seems to be getting more confusing instead of less – pick up the phone or better yet (if possible) – get up from your desk and walk down the hall and have a conversation with the person.
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Jane works with CEOs, Partners, Principals and Executives who are looking for Clarity, Focus and Release. My clients and colleagues call me a thought provoking Business Therapist. My focus is helping overwhelmed executives regain clarity, let go of ambiguity, uncertainty and fear, while bringing focus to their goals and objectives. I ask the hard questions knowing that you’re ready to answer them.
Jane is also the author of Put Your Big Girl Panties On and Kick Your Fears in the Ass.
Additional information is available at www.lovasconsulting.com. Contact Jane by email jlovas@lovasconsulting.com or by telephone at 703.594.6028.