"End the Silence of disappearances and learn to assert refusal"
In an era where time is of the essence, it's essential to maintain clear, open, and honest communication to build trust and avoid the practice of ghosting. According to a survey conducted by PMI, only half of the projects were completed on time and slightly more than half within budget during the period 2011 to 2018. This highlights the need for a change in approach, as outlined in Mita Mallick's article, "Stop Ghosting and Start Saying No," published in the Harvard Business Review, August 2022.
## Encourage Direct Communication
A culture that values honesty and openness is key to preventing ghosting. By normalising saying "no" early on, people are more likely to express their intentions clearly and promptly, rather than avoiding or ignoring requests or invitations.
## Set Clear Expectations Early
Defining timelines and response expectations from the outset is crucial. When people know when and how to respond, they are less likely to disappear without notice. This is particularly important in professional settings where projects, especially in domains like technology, infrastructure, pharma, and construction, can be complex and challenging to plan accurately.
## Model Honest Boundaries
Leaders and individuals should openly communicate their own boundaries and limitations. By showing vulnerability and honesty, we encourage others to do the same, fostering a culture of transparency and trust.
## Create Safe Spaces to Decline
Providing non-judgmental environments where saying "no" is respected and understood is essential. This emphasises that declining is a valid response and preferable to silence.
## Follow Up Thoughtfully
When communication pauses, proactively checking in with the other party can help reopen the conversation and reduce anxieties on both sides. A gentle message can go a long way in maintaining relationships and preventing misunderstandings.
## Develop Emotional Intelligence
Understanding why people may ghost—fear, discomfort, overwhelm—is key to responding empathetically. This encourages transparency and ongoing dialogue, replacing ghosting with honest dialogue.
In conclusion, Mita Mallick's article advocates for a shift away from avoidance behaviors towards fostering open, respectful, and timely communication. Preventing ghosting hinges on building cultures of trust and clarity where saying "no" is accepted and ghosting is replaced by honest dialogue. By adopting these strategies, we can build stronger connections, foster trust, and create more productive, reliable, and trustworthy relationships in our personal and professional lives.
In the spirit of fostering productive and trustworthy relationships, it's crucial to apply these strategies both in our personal and professional lives, as suggested by Mita Mallick in her article. By setting clear expectations, modeling honesty, creating safe spaces, developing emotional intelligence, and following up thoughtfully, we can reduce the occurrence of ghosting and replace it with open, respectful, and timely communication in our careers, financial dealings, and partnerships. This shift can potentially lead to more successful businesses, healthier lifestyles, and stronger relationships overall.
