Those communication shortcuts promising efficiency? They’re actually creating more work through endless clarification emails, misunderstandings, and follow-up conversations. True time-saving means clarity upfront.
The story
I just realized something about all those “time-saving” communication shortcuts we rely on daily. They’re actually making us less efficient.
When we send vague emails to save time, we end up in endless clarification loops. What could have been one clear message becomes five back-and-forths that eat up everyone’s day.
Those text abbreviations we use? Studies show they make us seem insincere. People perceive “thx” as less worthy of a thoughtful response than “thank you.”
I’ve noticed this in meetings too. When someone rushes through explanations, everyone leaves confused. Then come the separate follow-up conversations and missed deadlines.
True efficiency comes from investing more time upfront. Taking those extra minutes to add context and proofread pays off later.
My team started a “measure twice, message once” approach. We spend slightly longer crafting initial communications but have cut our email volume by nearly 30%. People understand directions the first time, and we waste less time interpreting vague requests.
Sometimes the fastest path isn’t cutting corners – it’s building a proper road.
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