How Clear Communication Transforms Expectations: A Simple Strategy to Reduce Conflict

During a recent work trip, I checked in at the front desk. Upon doing so, the woman behind the counter said:

“You have  a refrigerator in your room. The microwave and coffee are both located down here in the lobby, available 24/7, and the coffee machines freshly grind the beans with every cup.” 

Wow! Coffee 24/7 and freshly ground beans?

That was impressive. 

Now, here's the thing. 

If the woman at the front desk wouldn't have shared this with me up front, I would have likely arrived in the room and felt a tinge of disappointment (bordering on panic, let's be honest) about the fact that there wasn't coffee anywhere in sight. 

This is the power of the third invitation of Expansive Impact: an invitation to lead in everyday moments —

Be Clear: Lead in Relationship with Reality.

Part of this invitation includes creating clarity up front about what will follow. 

Oftentimes, conflict is not a result of what does or does not happen, but rather misaligned expectations about what will or will not happen. 

This simple act of explaining the coffee situation up front allowed guests to be delighted, rather than disappointed, by the experience that followed. 

Are there any situations that come to mind for you which might benefit from creating clarity up front? Or from aligning expectations on the front end, to reduce conflict down the line? 

A possible inquiry for the days ahead. 

Clear communication can turn potential disappointment into delight and misaligned expectations into mutual understanding. If you're ready to create clarity in your everyday moments and lead with confidence, we’re here to support you. Let’s work together to foster relationships built on trust, aligned expectations, and proactive leadership in both your personal and professional life.

This post was originally shared via Friday Favorites —a free weekly curation of resources, reflections, and inquiries on leadership and life. Join us here, and join the weekly conversation, if you’d like.

Setting Expectations: Clear communication up front helps align goals and prevents misunderstandings, leading to more positive experiences and stronger relationships.