Assumptions: The Silent Killer of Workplace Harmony

I’ve spent countless hours over the years mediating workplace conflicts. In recent times it’s been an especially prevalent part of how I’ve been spending time. It’s a role that often feels like playing detective, piecing together a puzzle of misunderstandings and miscommunications. And time and again, I’ve found that the root cause of these conflicts can be traced back to one insidious culprit: assumptions. 

We humans are wired to make sense of the world around us and assumptions are a natural part of this process. Unfortunately, in the workplace, they can be a recipe for disaster. When we assume we know someone’s intentions, we often jump to conclusions that are far from accurate. These assumptions can trigger strong emotions, leading to defensive behaviors and escalating the situation. 

For example, one employee I’ve worked with recently suggested to a colleague that they might excel in a different role within the company. Based on my understanding of the situation, the speaker intended this as a sincere compliment, recognizing the colleague's strengths and their potential contribution in another area. However, due to a history of eroded trust, the recipient misinterpreted the comment as criticism, perceiving it as a suggestion that their current performance was inadequate.  What they told me is that their colleague had implied that “I suck at my job and should be doing something else”.   

It takes courage to resist the urge to make assumptions and to engage in open and honest communication, especially when trust is low. But the rewards are immense. 

Instead of reacting impulsively, imagine taking a step back and approaching the situation with curiosity. What if, instead of assuming the worst, we asked clarifying questions? What if we sought to understand the other person’s perspective before forming an opinion? By simply being curious, we can open up a dialogue that can prevent misunderstandings from escalating into full-blown conflicts. 

It takes practice, but cultivating a mindset of curiosity can be transformative. It's about replacing assumptions with inquiry and replacing defensiveness with empathy. The result? Stronger relationships, increased productivity and a more harmonious workplace. 

Remember, the next time you find yourself feeling offended, take a deep breath and challenge your assumptions. You might be surprised at how much it can change the outcome.