[VIDEO] Set the Stage for Success by Setting Clear Expectations

Transcript:

Hi, I’m Dave of President of Arc Intermedia, a digital marketing agency, and welcome back to what am I working on today.

Today’s backdrop is the pipe organ at the old Wanamaker building. Philly history.

So today I’m making some updates to Arc’s compensation policies document where we spell out the responsibilities for every role in our company, how raises are determined, how bonuses can be earned, and the potential path for one’s career. We’re always trying to make sure that this document is clear as possible. Additionally, we have a questionnaire that’s used for annual review meetings so that each person knows exactly what to expect and can prepare. An annual review shouldn’t be a pop quiz. I have some updates to that today too.

As a digital marketing agency, we conduct very complex digital marketing programs that may span 12 months or more. These are programs that we’ve developed and refined over the years so there’s no way a client would know the cadence of tasks and deliverables. Therefore, we provide them with a road map document (Document graphic) so they know exactly what to expect and when. It’s a better way to work.

Regardless of what you’re doing, clearly stating or requesting expectations upfront will lead to better outcomes. You can eliminate confusion and misguided direction before it happens. Less frustration, more happiness.

On the flip side there’s no faster way to drive the train off the tracks than to rely on assumptions (Text call out). If you find yourself about to say “I assumed” or “my assumption was” that’s a fail. Assumptions can be dangerous. They open the door for the wrong interpretation, the wrong direction, and possibly the completely wrong outcome and that’s on you. People are not mind readers. If you find yourself about to utter any form of “assume” begin to think about how you could have averted this by setting, or asking for, a clear expectation.

So think expectations first and break the habit of assuming. Everyone will be better because of it.

I’m Dave from Arc and I hope this helps!