Why Miscommunications Occur 


Miscommunications are a product of varying reasons. Either one is not listening properly or the other is not providing information clearly. Regardless of who’s a fault it is, HRMatrix is here to provide you helpful tips on how to circumvent miscommunication. It’s better that we break down the common reasons for miscommunication into scenarios and generalized situations to help you get a better understanding of what we are advising you. 


You Didn’t Listen


Here is the first and most common issue that occurs in miscommunications. The receiver is not willing to receive, resulting in serious miscommunication. At that point, the person who is supposed to be listening is just picking and choosing what they want to retain. This hinders productivity to great extent as this tactic of listening is called selective hearing. In order to be a better listener, you have to accept that the conversation taking place is the current priority. The information and content within the conversation serve as a guide for you! You should treat conversations between employees and management with respect and value as they help you maneuver throughout the workplace. There are exceptional cases in which you are unable to completely tune into a conversation. In that case, do not be afraid to ask questions to help you better understand the content of the conversation.


Out of Context


With selective hearing, many of us take information out of context. This issue leads to poor workplace behavior as you are unable to recollect vital and fundamental information within conversations and/or meetings that help you comprehend the upcoming tasks in a more efficient manner. When you take information out of context, you are subjecting yourself and others to unintentional conflicts too. Miscommuncations can result in petty arguments. You don’t want to set a lackadaisical impression due to your inability to properly listen. 


Assuming


Another issue and symptom of miscommunication is assuming. We’ve all heard what assuming makes out of us and it’s true! You are transferring information that has not been completely received. This is also unfair to the person communicating with you as he/she/they might have been elaborating on an important subject but you failed to pay attention and assumed a different intent regarding the communicated information. Before you come to a halfhearted conclusion, clarify it with the person you are holding a conversation with. This expedites progress and helps others reach their goals faster because you were able to put the effort in to comprehend the context and information.