Spring Cleaning Assumptions

Have you done an assumption check-up lately? Assumptions are essential efficiency aids in decision-making; however, like all good things, eventually they can be crippling.

Assumptions are based on information and perceptions. They are shortcuts that allow us to concentrate on new information and analysis. Still, we need occasionally to do some spring cleaning on these mental shortcuts.

• People: Has that new hire gathered enough experience to be considered a trustworthy colleague? Has the quick-tempered subordinate been working on their social skills? Has your boss actually learned quite a bit about your work and could be considered a corporate ally?
• Organization: Are the demographics of your organization evolving into a younger, more multi-cultural workforce? Are the top-down decisions now more based on employee input and feedback? Have new managers in other parts of the organization changed how you should interact with your peers.
• Customers and the Public: What surprises you about customer reactions these days? How do the media report on your industry now compared to a few years ago? Are changes in government changing the environment for your work? How do non-customer members of the public think about your organization?
• Technology: Even though you are still struggling with a project started a couple of years ago, does that mean that new social media can be sidelined in your thinking? How does technology influence your new employees? What are your sources for information and options about technology trends?
• Environment: Do you need to step-up your workplace recycling? Do staff members have innovative ideas on "reduce, re-use, recycle" at work and at home? Are there organizational partners for a more intense approach to waste management?

Not all assumptions need be challenged at the same time, and some assumptions will still be valid. Spring cleaning means throwing out what is not needed and being more aware of what we are keeping.