Communication vs Assumptions - Navigating Blindspots and Trust

How we communicate is shaped by, and impacts, our relationships both personally and professionally.

What we do not always stop to consider is that communication styles are shaped long before people enter the workplace. Family dynamics, cultural background, education, previous work environments, trauma, leadership experiences, and even generational norms all influence how people express themselves, process information, respond to pressure, and interpret interactions with others.

The same dynamic can happen with processing and response styles. Some people process externally and respond quickly in the moment. Others need time to reflect before offering feedback or making decisions. In collaborative settings, especially meetings, the second group can easily appear disengaged, uncertain, or unprepared to someone who values immediate participation and rapid responses.

In reality, they may simply be processing internally before speaking.

There is a difference between adapting professionally and feeling as though you have to fundamentally change who you are in order to succeed.

Full article Published at CityGov.com‍ : ‍https://www.citygov.com/article/communication-vs-assumption-the-workplace-blind-spot-costing-you-trust