What I Said Isn’t What You Heard

“I know you think you understand what you thought I said, but I’m not sure you realize that what you heard is not what I meant.” There are conflicting reports as to who this quote belongs to, but one this is for sure – it is 100% on target. With time constraints and a constant bombardment of interruptions, clarity in business dealings is more important than ever.

We have become used to abbreviating with text messaging and have also shortened many of our other thoughts. Without explicit details, we are left to fill in the blanks with our own interpretation of the subject matter. This usually works out OK within an organization, but as soon as that communication leaves the office it can become misconstrued.

We all know the PACA rules, the necessity for proper documentation and the consequences for not abiding by the structure of a proper transaction. Yet, in the rush to make a sale, many often ignore the protocol and then later wonder what went wrong. It is imperative to slow down and communicate clearly.

This can also translate to your personal life. Communicating and clearly defining expectations will save countless relationship issues. I could list numerous examples, but you know what I mean… Re-read or repeat to yourself and try to hear it from the recipient’s point of view. Did you hear what I meant?