In a standard game of darts, the highest point total a player can score on a single throw is 60 points. It’s a high-risk shot because the 60-point space is tiny and hard to hit. If the competitor misses just slightly, that throw could wind up being worth a measly one point. In darts, the difference between winning and losing is determined by a fraction of an inch. In leadership, missing the mark, or not being understood, can also be costly.
Problems arise when, as leaders, we think we’re hitting the bullseye, but we are unknowingly off-target. This is a recipe for repeating what isn’t working, failing to connect with the team, and not being understood. If we don’t notice when our approach is falling flat, we’ll unintentionally continue to be ineffective. But if you recognize it, you can make a change. Here are 3 ways to tell when your message isn’t landing.
1. You repeat yourself often.
Communication breakdowns happen, but when your audience is confused, your audience may tune you out. Are you being too complicated? Are you asking enough questions? Are you rushing? Clarity helps eliminate confusion. If you find yourself repeating things over and over, evaluate your messaging. What worked in the past may not work forever because people change and objectives shift.
What worked in the past may not work forever because people change and objectives shift.2. You see a dip in passion in the people around you.
Is morale low? Is motivation elusive? Do people on your team seem less on board with your vision? This is a sign your message may not be landing. It is the perfect opportunity not only to stress the importance of the overall mission but to communicate just how valuable your team is. When people feel like what they are doing matters, they engage more fully in their day-to-day work. They need to be convinced that what they are doing makes a difference.
3. You constantly have to alter your approach.
There is something to be said for switching things up to prevent working environments from becoming stagnant. But, flip-flopping all the time feels like leadership lacks vision. Your messaging will miss the bullseye, and eventually, you’ll feel like you’re not being understood, if you are being inconsistent.
Sound off: What is the most important message leaders should be giving?
Huddle up with your kids and ask, “Have you ever felt misunderstood? What was it like?”