We often believe we have been very clear in communicating our expectations and assume they are well understood by those around us.

A good percentage of the time, we are wrong.

What seems clear to us is not always clear to others who bring different backgrounds, experiences, and communication styles.

I have been guilty of this myself—sending a quick email, believing I had documented my expectations clearly, only to be disappointed later when the outcome didn’t match my intent. The issue wasn’t effort. It was understanding.

Most of us have experienced this in other areas of life as well.

You may have taken a course from a professor who clearly understood the material but struggled to connect in a way that allowed you to learn.

You may have children who didn’t seem to “get it,” no matter how many times you explained it.

Or you’ve seen someone simply repeat themselves louder when they weren’t understood—as if volume creates clarity.

It doesn’t.

As leaders, we must remember that not everyone learns the way we do. Some people are visual learners. Others are auditory. Others learn best through experience.

Effective communication requires that we meet people where they are—not where we are.

The Golden Rule falls short here. It’s not about treating others the way we want to be treated. It’s about communicating with others in the way they best receive it.

Because you haven’t truly communicated until they have understood.

So today, how can you adjust your approach to meet your audience where they are?