True Communication requires Accountability

Have you ever found yourself thinking “That was an awful experience! Why did I even bother?”. Some individuals have not only had this experience once, but they may also actually find themselves making this statement often. So, do we chalk it up to bad luck? 

Well… we could, but we would simply be making an excuse instead of learning how to improve situations. Let us talk about the adage “Communication is key.” Communication not only comes in many forms, but it is also necessary to recognize that it needs to be clear, and it needs to start early. Can we really blame another for not providing what we need or expect if we have not verbalized the expectations? 

To create the career and life you genuinely want, it is time to hone your communication skills. To be an expert communicator, you need to add accountability to your toolbox. This requires taking actionable steps throughout your experiences. Now that we know the “Why” this is important, let’s get to the “How.” 

• The first step is acknowledging that you control your expectation and your ability to vocalize it at any time. 
• Make a list of what you need and expect from a situation and the person(s) you are working with. 
• Confirm that your expectations are reasonable/viable for each situation. (We cannot expect a Disneyland experience on a McDonald's budget, a 4-year degree from a 4-week coaching course or to gain new knowledge without participating in the process) 
• Create a list of questions, resources & tools you will require to reach your expectation. Speak with the experience leader to convey the “Ask” for your list of items. 
• Listen intently to the teachings/information provided and consider how you can use it to benefit your goals/experience. Not everything is life-changing, but even the smallest kernels of information can yield a harvest if planted properly. 
• Use your words. Communicate directly with those you are working with. Tell them clearly what your experience is and if you need something more. (Email should be used to convey positive feedback or follow-up notes AFTER a verbal conversation is had. Text messaging should not be considered an appropriate pathway for career or educational purposes. Written communication can easily be taken out of context or misinterpreted due to a lack of tone. I highly recommend avoiding the text tool for career or educational communication. It is the least professional communication tool available to you.) 

Accountability means you are scheduling a call or Zoom meeting to discuss questions, complaints, and requests. Avoid delaying the conversation and never wait until the end of your experience/program to express your needs or make a complaint. Others will not know there is an issue unless you have expressly told them. They also cannot correct or improve the situation unless they know there is one.