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Jefferson Fisher

how to communicate your expectations

Published about 1 year ago • 1 min read

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Hey Reader,

Ever noticed how unspoken expectations often lead to letdowns?

Let’s change that.

Here’s how to effectively communicate your expectations:

1: Say your expectations out loud.

Keeping your expectations in your head? Prepare for disappointment.

Express them clearly and verbally.

2: Highlight the positive.

Focus on the good that comes from meeting expectations. Swap, “I expect you not to be late” with “Arriving on time helps us start better.” It’s about painting a picture of the positive outcomes.

You’re still giving expectations. You’re just showing them the positive behavior that results from it.

3: Use language that shows a mutual interest or support.

Don’t say “I expect you to…,” which makes it sound like you’re up here and they’re down here.

Instead, say, “I would love for us to be,” “I want for you to,” or “I believe that you can.”

Pro tip: All these expectations have to come from a genuine place. Because an expectation given in anger is just going to turn into resentment.

- J.

P.S. The clearer your expectations, the clearer your communication will be. It's all about making expectations work for you, not against you.

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156 S. Main Street Ste 300 #769, Lumberton, TX 77657

Jefferson Fisher

Trial Attorney & Communication Expert

Simple, practical communication advice for your next conversation.

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