While I was planning for a recent birthday club event, I was reminded how important it is to use language that clearly communicates your intent. Although I hosted the affair, the person who coordinates these events sent out the email with all the details for the party. As I was finalizing the food preparations, I realized that I did not have a coffee pot big enough to serve the group. I also did not have coffee with caffeine as I only drink decaf. I asked the coordinator to have someone in the group bring coffee. The picture that was in my head (and the one I thought I had conveyed to the party coordinator) was a boxed container of coffee from Starbuck’s. On the day of the party, the designated coffee person showed up with a bag of caffeinated coffee! We were stuck making coffee for everyone in my two cup machine.

This event reminded me that third party communication is a challenge that also occurs in schools. The coach leader shares information with their leadership team members who in turn communicate their understanding of the information to their grade level or department. The coach leader plans an event with the PTA board and these board members pass the information on to parents.

Although coach leaders strive to communicate all messages clearly, miscommunication is inevitable. Coach leaders elect to own their part of the miscommunication. They focus on the breakdown in the communication process like an inductive mentor and not on blaming others like a deductive mentor. They ask for data in a non-accusing manner and tone of voice. They make statements like, “I know that you are a teacher who values student success. Perhaps I was unclear in conveying what teachers and students would be doing. Help me understand how this miscommunication occurred.” or “As a PTA board member, I know that you care about our staff and students. I was confused when the wrong t-shirts were delivered to the school. I am wondering how that happened.” Creating these safe, non-threatening environments allows for honest, stress free dialogue. These coach-like interactions have the potential to streamline processes and/or encourage creative solutions while still holding everyone involved accountable for their actions.