Translate ambiguous requests

Monday’s Daily Tip shared the CPDP formula for clear requests, but what if someone asks something of you that isn’t clear, present tense, doable, or positive (action-oriented), in other words, what do you do with frustrating, or unclear requests made of you? 

Your boss might say, “keep me in the loop.” But what, really, is her expectation? What details does she expect you to include, or not bother her with?

She may only be asking that you notify her if the plan changes, or she may want a detailed daily summary. 

Author Ike Lasater says that “This ambiguity can lead to conflict simply because what is being said isn’t as clear as it could be.”

It’s your job to translate unclear requests. 

First, identify assumptions. Your's and the requestor’s.

Second, ask questions that translate the request into clear, doable, positive / action oriented language.  

Example

“By ‘keep me in the loop,’ do you mean you would like me to include you in all project decisions?” 

An exercise you can do to build this skill is to listen mindfully this week to all the requests you hear at work and at home. Simply identify which are clear and doable, and which are vague and full of assumptions.