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While there are some advantages to implicit communication, such as being able to avoid conflict or coming across as aggressive, there are many disadvantages. Implicit communication is defined as communication through cues, body language, or tone of voice. When we communicate implicitly, we are relying on the other person to interpret our meaning correctly. And, as we all know, this is not always possible.
If you want to be sure that your message is being received the way you intend, then you need to be clear and explicit in your communication. This means always asking for what you want, and not assuming that the other person will know what you want.
Therefore, it’s important to be clear and direct when communicating with others, especially at work. Yes, it can be scary to ask for what you want. But the worst that can happen is that the other person will say no. And, in most cases, "no" really means "not right now". It doesn’t mean that you will never get what you want. So, don’t be afraid to ask for what you want.
The Problem with Implicit Communication at work
Implicit communication can be problematic in a professional setting because it often leads to misunderstandings, since you are relying on the other person to interpret your communication in the way you intended. When relying on implicit communication in the workplace, the message can often get distorted and the meaning behind it can be lost. For example, if you express a feeling of disappointment without clearly stating what it is you need or expect, the other person may not understand what you need or why you are expressing disappointment. This lack of clarity can lead to unnecessary arguments and resentment. To ensure that your message is received the way you intended, it’s best to be direct and explicit with your communication -- mind readers don't exist!!
The value in asking for what you want at work
By asking for what you want in the workplace, you are conveying confidence in your own abilities and increasing the chances of getting what you want. It demonstrates career ownership since you are not assuming that the other person knows what you want or need. Asking for what you want also sends a message that you expect to be taken seriously, treated with respect and increases the chances of success. When you are direct and clear in communicating your needs and desires, the other person is more likely to understand what you are asking for and be more willing to help you.
How to go about asking for what you want at work
When asking for what you want in the workplace, it’s important to be clear and direct. Make sure to state specifically what it is you are asking for, why you are asking for it, and make sure to express your needs and desires in a respectful manner. It also helps to provide examples and/or evidence to back up your request. For example, if you are asking for a salary raise, it helps to provide examples of your achievements and successes to bolster your request. It’s also important to be prepared for a “no”. Make sure to have a backup plan in case the other person is not able to fulfill your request to get to a win-win not win-lose conclusion to your discussion. This will help to prevent any disappointment if the request is not granted.
Overcoming the fear of asking for what you want at work
It’s natural to feel nervous or scared when asking for something at work -- but the worst anyone can ever say is no. Even if you don’t get what you ask for, it doesn’t mean that you have failed. It just means that the situation did not work out the way you wanted it to at that moment. Remind yourself that you are worthy of asking for what you want, and that it is okay to express your needs and desires. Nothing lasts forever so if at first you don't succeed try, try again and never give up. Giving up rarely hurts anyone else, so be your own best advocate.
Wrapping up
It’s important to be mindful of how you communicate in the workplace, especially when it comes to asking for what you want. Asking for what you want conveys confidence in your own abilities and demonstrates respect for yourself and the other person. It also increases the chances of success and decreases the chances of misunderstandings or conflict. While it can be difficult to overcome the fear of asking for what you want, it is essential for achieving success. Remember to stay positive and practice positive self-talk. Even if you don’t get what you ask for in that moment, it doesn’t mean it's forever. It simply means that the situation did not work out the way you wanted it to for now.