In a Gathering of Power Players, I Held the Correct Solution - Yet, No Support Until I Executed This Unconventional Move
In the world of business and technology, it's not just about having the right ideas or solutions - it's also about effectively communicating them. This is a lesson that the author has learnt throughout their career, from working at UTA, the LA Clippers, and SkaFld Studio.
Engineers may try to bury doubt with detail, but doubt is often emotional, not rational. In a room full of executives, creatives, agents, or business leaders, being the only one who speaks "tech" can lead to misunderstandings. To avoid this, it's essential to use clear, resonant language to make complexity approachable.
Empathy is a strategy for effective communication of technical ideas. By understanding the listener's perspective and reframing concerns in their own language, clarity and a clearer path forward can be created. Speaking in familiar language also lowers resistance and builds buy-in.
Starting with outcomes instead of the tech stack is more effective in communicating technical ideas. For instance, during a tense draft season with the LA Clippers, the importance of influence was demonstrated when calls to prospects came from someone with real influence, resulting in more players joining.
Tech initiatives often fail because they're misunderstood, not necessarily because they're flawed. Disruption can feel like displacement, and confusion can trigger fear, which are not solved by technical specifications alone. It doesn't matter if you're right if no one understands you.
In the early days of the author's career, using jargon as a defense mechanism did not build trust. The author had to unlearn the habit of using jargon and retrain themselves to reframe, simplify, and connect. Adopting a "Translator Mindset" can help technical leaders build trust, drive alignment, and turn complex ideas into real-world impact.
Joining [brand name]+ provides access to more insights on this topic. The founder of SkaFld Studio, a co-founder referenced in the context of leadership and technical communication, stresses the importance of this approach.
In conclusion, effective communication is key to the success of any technical initiative. By focusing on the listener's perspective, using clear and simple language, and starting with outcomes, technical leaders can build trust, drive alignment, and turn complex ideas into real-world impact.
