Clear Communication > Mind Reading

Some months back I was chatting with a CEO who was underwhelmed by the performance of a key employee.

I asked the leader if they had been clear about what they expected.

Their answer shocked me:

“No. I didn’t tell them what I wanted. I’m testing them to see if they can figure it out.”

Wow.

I can understand wanting to get a sense of someone’s instincts.

But, is expecting someone to read your mind really the best recipe for success?

And more importantly- is it kind?

To be fair, the CEO in question is a sharp, fantastic leader.

They were just implementing a bad strategy.

Which made me wonder, have I ever expected some to read my mind?

Expected that those who know me well would be able to decipher what I wanted without me telling them?  (When I’M not even sure what I want!?!?!)

Have I given “extra credit” to those who “know what I’m thinking before I do”?

And while this may happen on rare occasions, wouldn’t communicating in advance with clarity be a better and more gracious formula for repeatable results?

I’m thinking of the answer right now.

Can you read my mind? 🙂