This week there’s been a common theme that has come up that has intrigued me. It’s the difference between communicating “done” and “draft”. When work is sent to me on a project that I’m responsible for, I have completely different feedback if I think you’re “done” vs it’s a “draft” you’re showing me.
You come up with a concept that you think rocks. It’s unfinished and still a rough draft, but you’re so excited you want to send it on. So, naturally you send an email like:
Hey Chris, check this out! I was working on this and want to see what you think. We can post this on our biggest website front and center and people will love it. What do you think?!?
Let me know,
Your Top Performer
I look at the email, and take a look at what you sent. I’m thinking how this will look front and center. I see the things that are slightly off and write back and say “fix this, fix that, and this is off”. All the while I’m thinking, “Wow, glad I’m here. You were going to show that to the world? Scary!”
What we have here is a case of classic mis-communication. I didn’t know that you were sending me a draft. Here’s how you can communicate that you’re sending a draft…
Hey Chris, check this out! I was working on this and came up with a rough concept for the front page. I was thinking this could go front and center. I have a lot of cleanup and I’m aware of this. I want to run it by you first and make sure this is a good direction. What do you think?!? Should I continue?
Let me know,
Your Top Performer
Upon reading this email, I’m able to look at the concept. Review the idea and direction. I’m about to get excited! I don’t see the flaws because you know it’s not perfect. I’m on board. Looks great, lets do it! Looking forward to the next draft!
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