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.
We’ve been watching American Idol this season – every year people go onto the show, think they are an amazing singer, then they sing. If I was go to onto American Idol and get laughed at, I’d be fine. I know that I’m not a singer. I have no aspiration to be an amazing star.
I’ve noticed that often people will say something like “I’d like to meet with you about X”. Unfortunately, if will often not happen. When you are requesting a meeting, or responding to a meeting request, there are a few things to be sure to do to make sure it happens.
“Chris, can you complete X by tomorrow by 5PM.” asks Bob. “Sure, I will do that.” I respond. Awesome, I know that I’m supposed to complete X, and I committed to completing it by 5PM tomorrow. I know what I need to do, and when I need to have it complete. I work on the …
“I don’t like using pen and paper. I’d rather type. I take my laptop everywhere with me. I can take notes with my laptop wherever I go. It’s so much more convenient.” That is true, but there is a time when you should use your laptop, and times that good old fashioned pen and paper …
“I’m not a finisher. Starting things is easy for me, but finishing them is so hard! Other people are so much better at finishing them.” Sound familiar? I bet this is true for almost everyone. There are a few people out there who naturally finish things, but I think those people are in the minority. …
Stressed Requester: “I want that done” You: “When?” Stressed Requester: “A.S.A.P.” You: “Okay, no problem. As soon as possible would be a month from now. Without breaking any prior commitments, we can get it out in a month! How does that sound?”
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