Common communication mistakes #2: Info-dumping

Too often we communicate using ‘infodump’. This is where we share more information than necessary to get our point across. Usually, info-dumps lack a clear structure or a clear purpose.

Info-dumping also happens when a speaker lists ALL the events in a situation in the order they happened instead of the parts that are most relevant to the key point.

There is overlap between info-dumping and the communication mistake discussed yesterday: 'Not having a clear purpose for your message'. People tend to deliver too much information when they are not sure about the purpose of their message and don't have a clear action they want the audience to take.

Communication at work should be framed to ensure the audience understands the context, the reason it is being shared, and so they quickly receive the key message. Additional information should be summarized and structured in a way the audience can quickly absorb and understand it.

If you find yourself sharing the entire history of a situation without someone asking you to, that is a sign to stop, reframe the message, and start again.

Learn about the other common mistakes ...

This article is #2 in an 8 part series highlighting common communication mistakes at work and how to address them. If you found this article useful please like it, share it, and leave a comment below.

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