Common Assumptions
A client hasn't responded in 2 days
What is: They're not interested?
A client hasn’t responded
What is: They’re busy or missed the message?
A client hasn’t responded
What is: Follow up?
Why assumptions are risky at work
What is: They lead to miscommunication or wrong decisions?
Your manager says "We need to talk"
What is: I'm in trouble?
“We need to talk” from your manager
What is: It could be feedback or an update?
You feel left out of a meeting
What is: Ask if I should be included?
Treating thoughts like facts is called this
What is: Making assumptions?
A coworker is closing more deals than you
Answer: What is: They’re better than me?
You weren’t invited to a meeting
What is: It may not be relevant to my role?
A buyer seems uninterested
What is: Ask directly if they’re still interested?
The better skill than guessing
What is: Asking for clarity?
You weren’t invited to a meeting
What is: I’m being left out?
A client gives short replies
What is: They’re busy or just direct?
You think a client is upset
What is: Clarify instead of assuming?
What assumptions often create between coworkers
What is: Conflict or misunderstanding?
A client gives short replies
What is: They’re annoyed or rude?
Coworker closing more deals
What is: They may have a different pipeline or leads?
You feel behind compared to coworkers
What is: Review facts or ask for feedback?
The Third Agreement principle
What is: Don’t make assumptions—ask questions instead?