A boot camp drill sergeant sends a new recruit for psychological evaluation because he constantly repeats the phrase “Where is it?” The army psychologist is also unable to engage the private in meaningful conversation, so she concludes that the soldier is unfit for military service and recommends a mental health discharge.
When the boot camp commander discharges the soldier, he says, “Son, the army isn’t for everyone. Good luck back in the civilian world; here’s your discharge paperwork.”
To which the private replies: “There it is!”
***
Astute communicators don’t make people search all over for the meaning of their message. Just because you’ve stopped talking or you’ve hit the Send button doesn’t mean that the other person understands what you’re saying. The necessary next step is to check for understanding and, when needed, to facilitate message comprehension. Restate, explain, and clarify until your conversational partner grasps your intended message.
Communication hasn’t happened until the other person says “There it is!” and absorbs what you’re trying to say. Don’t discharge yourself from a conversation before understanding occurs.
Originally posted on mouthpeaceconsulting.com.