Is That Your Final Answer?

Many of us recognize the phrase “Is that your final answer?” from the popular TV show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? What many of us may not appreciate is how relevant and appropriate a version of this question can be in our interactions with our colleagues and bosses.

One of the more common sources of misunderstanding and wasted effort in organizations today is the disconnect that often arises between “what we think we hear” and “what was intended” in our communication with others.

Even when we seem sure we understand what has been said, when we do not take the time to confirm our own understanding by asking questions before we end a meeting or conversation with someone else, there are opportunities galore for confusion and surprise down the road.

Let me give you an example of how this can happen.

I know several leaders who have a style of “thinking out loud” when meeting one-on-one with others or participating in group discussions. Perhaps this is your style, or maybe you work with someone where this is true.

It is very easy for us to assume that what we are hearing is a “final answer” when in fact the other person is still vetting alternatives and is simply using the interaction or conversation as a way to continue to evaluate his or her final position.

The problem occurs when someone leaves a meeting with a boss, or some other decision-maker, thinking that “marching orders” or “executive support” has been provided, and based on that belief the individual proceeds to implement a program or rally support from others.

What often happens next is the individual who thought he or she was given approval for moving forward in one direction begins to learn that others have been encouraged to pursue another direction “with the support” of the boss or decision maker.

What each of these individuals may not realize is that they have read too much into their conversations with the boss and/or they simply heard what they wanted to hear.

Take the time to determine whether a boss is truly at a point of decision or whether he or she is simply in the middle of evaluating all possible directions. By asking “Is that your final answer?”, or some variation of this question, we can prevent some of the frustration, confusion and wasted effort that often accompanies the sense that the boss is sending mixed signals or is changing his or her mind, when in fact our boss is utilizing multiple conversations to arrive at the best decision for the organization.