What do you do if your boss doesn't understand your communication?

1 Assess Clarity

Before concluding that your boss is the issue, take a moment to assess your own clarity in communication. Are you articulating your thoughts and ideas clearly? Sometimes, what seems obvious to you may not be to others. Ensure that you're using language that is specific, straightforward, and free of jargon that your boss may not understand. If you're conveying complex information, consider breaking it down into simpler terms or using visual aids like charts or graphs to enhance understanding.

2 Seek Feedback

After you've evaluated your communication style, seek feedback from your boss. Ask open-ended questions about which aspects of your communication are unclear and listen attentively to their responses. This will not only show your willingness to improve but also give you specific insights into how you can adjust your communication to be more effective. Remember, feedback is a two-way street; it's as much about understanding your boss's communication preferences as it is about them understanding you.

3 Adapt Style

Once you have feedback, it's time to adapt your communication style to better align with your boss's preferences. If they prefer detailed reports, provide them. If they're more visual, incorporate graphs and charts. Some bosses may prefer bullet points and concise summaries. Pay attention to their style of communication too; mirroring their approach can sometimes make your messages more digestible for them.

4 Confirm Understanding

After adapting your communication approach, confirm that your boss has understood you. This can be as simple as asking, "Does that make sense?" or "Do you need any clarification on this point?" Encouraging them to summarize what you've said in their own words can also be a useful tool to ensure that the message has been received as intended. This step is crucial as it closes the loop of communication and ensures that both parties are on the same page.

5 Follow Up

Effective communication doesn't end once the conversation is over. Follow up with an email summarizing the key points discussed and any agreed-upon action items. This provides a written record that both you and your boss can refer back to, which can be especially helpful if there's ever any confusion in the future. It also demonstrates your commitment to clear and effective communication and helps to build a foundation of mutual understanding.

6 Use Mediators

If, despite your best efforts, communication with your boss remains a challenge, consider using mediators. This doesn't necessarily mean involving human resources; mediators can be tools such as project management software where updates and progress can be tracked transparently. Sometimes having a neutral platform for communication can alleviate misunderstandings and provide clarity for all parties involved.