Department of Common Sense

?? Are you a robot?

Have you ever seen this image and realized that you might not be considered as a human? Awkward but a real feeling, indeed...

I feel this way all the time, like I’m some type of alien trying to live in a human world. A world where you have to explain the most simple thing to others.

What happened to common sense?

No one knows anymore ??

Common sense (definition):

• the basic level of practical knowledge and judgment that we all need to help us live in a reasonable and safe way;
• the ability to make good basic decisions.

Startups are known for their innovative solutions, but also for their flexibility, flat hierarchy and remote work. These characteristics bring a lot of communication issues, mainly because there is a bigger need to have written and organized documents and procedures, so that everyone is on the same page.

Again, common sense issues… that basic knowledge that we come to expect from others. Examples: if you’re feeling sick, go to the doctor ?? (don't check uncle google) or look both ways before crossing the street ?? (and not your phone).

How should Startups tackle these communication issues that are related to this general lack of common sense?

Starting with the basics: the simple communication process.

Let’s deconstruct the communication process:

• Sender: develops an idea that needs to be shared with the receiver;
• Message: idea that needs to be shared encoded by the sender;
• Receiver: receiver decodes the message;?
• Feedback: this is the response the receiver returns to the sender;
• Noise: can be anything that modifies the intended idea of the message.

And now let’s reflect on how common sense interferes with communication:

• When it's assumed that the other person knows the basics and they don’t…;
• When the receiver doesn't ask questions or provides feedback to demonstrate that the message was well received.

Feedback is vital in letting the sender know how the receiver has interpreted the message ?? this is called active listening. You can’t just throw information to people, you need to guarantee that they understood it.

Companies must create an environment that encourages feedback and that allows anyone to ask questions without being embarrassed or feeling less of themselves.

Tackling communication issues in Startups is a daily task, so keep everything simple, use common sense, ask for feedback and create a positive environment.