Why assumptions are bad for business.(SELECTED * TOPIC)

We make assumptions when we don't fully understand a situation. It is a natural reaction to immediately fill in any missing information by making up our own story. We do this because we like to try to make sense of people and situations. The problem with this is that most of the time our story is incorrect, which causes all kinds of complications. The fact is, we don't know what the truth is unless we ask.

As much as we would like to think we know what others are thinking, we simply can't read minds. Sometimes we think we have the super power to know the reasons why people do the things they do (without asking them) which is pretty presumptuous. Remember, not everyone sees the world the same way you do (shocker, I know, but it is easy to forget).

Need another reason to stop making assumptions? Try turning it around. Do you believe that other people can read your mind? Would you rather that someone make up a story (an assumption) about what you are thinking and feeling? Or, would you prefer that they ask you?

When you ask instead of assume, you may not always get an answer you like or expect. Still, asking is much better than making up your own story because then you are in the position to make an informed next step.

Asking questions seems like an easy thing to do so why don't we do it more often? Why do we sometimes become paralyzed when it comes time to:

* Contact a client to find out why they haven't responded to a phone call or e-mail.

* Ask a partner if they are satisfied with the way you work together.