The Impact of Assumptions

Recently, an interaction left me shaking my head and laughing out of the sheer ridiculousness of what transpired. I was approached to complete a task using a software program. I was given step by step instructions on what to do in terms that a kindergartner would understand. Here's what I found ridiculously funny, not only do I know how to do what I was asked, I'm certified to train others in how to use this software. The person I was interacting with "assumed" I didn't know how to use this program at all; and spoke to me as if I couldn't understand the terminology without it being "dumbed down". It made me think of the people we interact with on a daily basis and the assumptions we make, many times automatically, and always based on what we see, hear, or have been led to believe from a title/role perspective.

How many times have you interacted with someone who is completely disheveled, doesn't enunciate well, displays poor manners, and looks unkempt? What do you assume about that person? Statistics state that others assumed they are very poor, uneducated or homeless and not worth a second look. But, what if you were wrong? What if that person was well educated, with mulitple doctorate degrees, very wealthy and knew how to speak multiple languages fluently? How would you find all of this out? Would you take the time to have a conversation and ask? Or would you allow your assumptions to drive your behavior and avoid him/her? Some of our greatest opportunities and relationships are lost when we make assumptions about others.

Since 2009, studies and analysis show that there has been a huge shift in the thinking around titles and roles in the workplace, with the prevalent assumption being that lower titles and roles are filled with less educated and polished employees. Again, these are assumptions and mostly untrue. In the world of business today, people are changing careers and taking roles that offer something that's meaningful to them, and for reasons other than climbing a corporate ladder. Making assumptions based on a title or role can alienate you from those that provide real value with their skills and talents. It's like judging a book by the cover....you really don't know what it's about until you dive in to see what's inside.

Th next time you begin to assume something about someone, stop and ask yourself if you would want the same in return? I would guess the answer would be no - but then I would be making an assumption based on my own thinking.