If you’re asking a question, make sure you ask the question. Often times communication becomes unclear between parties when the information transmitted and received has underlying subtext.
Below is the conversation between myself and a potential client. You will see how I misunderstood a question that was formed as a statement. Sometimes being blunt is safer than leaving things to be interpreted incorrectly.
Email correspondence:
“Tweet, I forgot to mention we can pay $100 total for the rehearsal process, and $40 per performance. This show is in a small space with only 50 seats. Do you know Susie Carmichael? She is our musical director/piano player.”
When I replied asking about rehearsal times, I was hit with this reply:
“Tweet, I’m sorry I never saw an email from you that you agreed to the rate (if I missed it I apologize!) and we found someone, they started rehearsing last week, but we will have lots more opportunities and would love to work with you. We’ll be doing shows regularly very soon!”
The only question I saw was asking if I knew the MD. The previous lines were stating what the pay would be. That’s a statement, not a question! As much as I wanted to rip his throat out, I graciously replied “Thank you for the opportunity.”
This is a two-way lesson: get clarity on all ends.
Chime in and let me know your thoughts