It sounds like common sense. Some may even consider it to be trite, yet the fact is that before you communicate, you should consider who will be reading or listening to your message. This means taking the time to assess your audience. It also means that regardless of how painstaking your assessments, you still may be mistaken because, after all, effective communication is about understanding expectations.
I remember attending a panel interview for a position, along with three other candidates. As I introduced myself as Barbara Cordes, the panel members’ faces visibly changed to wide-eyed glances. The lead interviewer repeated my last name as “Cordez.” Clearly, my blonde hair did not match their expectations of diversity. I was confused!
Another time I was working with adult learners, getting them to experiment with different ways to show time passage and how each of the six verb tenses changes the meaning of a sentence. Through experience, I knew how to show and explain this construction.
Two students of color, who were usually quick learners, were frustrated. They explained that their native language did not use various verb forms to indicate time passage. There was only one form for each verb and then another word was used to indicate time. We go yesterday (past tense) or We go tomorrow (future). Talk about expectations!
Even with the best of assessments and intentions, the complexities of communication are challenging. Fortunately, keeping an attitude of openness and acceptance allows us to learn from each other.
Long story, short: Do your homework, yet remain flexible.
