Be Wary of Assumptions

One of the first lessons I remember learning in the association world is to be wary of assumptions. As soon as the word "assume" would come out of my mouth, my mentor/director would remind me that assumptions were often the first place where results would fall short, never to assume anything.

Still, it is hard to remember the familiar rules when you feel like you've been there before. I remember a recent experience when I was part of a conference call and I knew one of the other people on the phone was a fastidious note taker. In fact, she was an expert in the long lost art of shorthand and was known for taking exquisite notes with all of the depth and knowledge one could ask for. I took it easy during the call and jotted down a few things, but otherwise I held back knowing that the expert had it all under control.

Except she didn't.

Unbeknownst to me, she had to duck off the call early. I found out later that my inferior notes would have to suffice and I was reminded of that primary rule learned so long ago...that one must never assume anything!

Be wary of assumptions. If you ever find yourself saying, " I assume..." red flags should go up. Never assume. Always ask or clarify. You'll be glad you did.