Why are you doing it that way?
We’ve all heard this question posed in bewilderment or judgmental disdain. Perhaps we’ve even asked it ourselves. The confusion that often surrounds this inquiry stems from the assumption that there is only one way to do something and that “our way” is right. This unwillingness to think outside of the box and entertain another perspective will inevitably hinder progress and stifle the creativity of any collaborative project.
We all do things that make sense to us.
Let’s quickly explore this idea:
Ashley and Karen are roommates. Karen washes the dishes and puts the knives in the dish drainer point down. To her, this makes sense. She doesn’t want the point sticking up because she’s afraid someone might get hurt. Ashley sees this and asks, “Why are you doing it that way?” To Ashley, putting the knives point down dulls the tip. Each have a reason for doing it “their way” and neither is necessarily right or wrong. Both actions are sensible; they simply follow a different train of logic.
Author and business leader, Tammy Hughes, points out in her “GenderSpeak” research that, in the workplace, diversity often rears its head when analyzing gender-specific styles of management. There are, of course, exceptions to all rules, but studies show that, statistically, females are more likely to multi-task when given a list of things to accomplish. To others, who prefer to complete one assignment at a time, this multi-tasking appears chaotic and unorganized. Neither strategy is “incorrect”, but we must consider: Is one more efficient? And here’s where it gets complicated. The answer varies based on the situation, the project, and the individual.
Yet, whether our differences stem from a gender, cultural, or age gap, it all boils down to what makes the most sense to each individual and how can we cultivate diversity to optimize workflow?
1. Expect differences. Everyone is going to bring their own ideas, background, and experience to the table. Your way is not always going to be their way.
2. Acknowledge variance with an open mind. Recognize everyone’s uniqueness and pinpoint each person’s strengths.
3. Discuss. If someone’s process doesn’t make sense, ask (sans judgment) “Why are you doing it that way?” Let your co-worker explain their thought process. It might just make sense! And you might even decide their way is better…
4. Asses. Make a judgment call. If their way is equally or more efficient than your way, embrace their method and let them continue. Utilizing project management software is a great way to analyze efficiency, track progress, and keep communication up-to-date.
Now, I’m sure you’re asking: But, what if someone else’s way isn’t working?
There will be times when a collaborator’s process is lacking in some way you need to direct them to make a change. When this happens, it is imperative to EXPLAIN WHY you are asking them to do their job differently. The logic behind your request will make all the difference. As discussed earlier, people do things that make sense to them.
One of the most common mistakes managers make is telling their employees to do something a particular way without a reason. This lack of communication can lead to coworkers feeling resentful or making assumptions like, “We don’t actually have to do it that way; he’s just trying to micromanage us.” Or, “Her way takes too long; I’m going to continue doing it how I want.” Perhaps the “longer way” is more efficient and results in fewer errors, which, in the end, saves time and money because fewer corrections have to be made later on… But if that isn’t explained up front, you’re just a parent saying, “Because I said so.” And let’s be honest, no one in history has ever been satisfied with that explanation.
Questions or comments? Feel free to share them below!
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Originally from Chicago, Alison L. Thalhammer is a writer currently based in Los Angeles. She enjoys a variety of genres, but is captivated by comedy. Her writing can be seen featured on stage at Second City Hollywood.