I got it. Why repeat?

Over and overQ:  I am going bonkers because my boss repeats details over and over even after I say:   “Thank you, I got it.”  What am I missing?

A: I don’t think your manager is caught in a loop, repeating his words the same way as the “stuck” character in the movie Groundhog Day, so asking what you are missing is a good place to begin.  It’s possible that “I got it” isn’t communicating to your manager that you (1) listened, (2) comprehended the details and (3) will take appropriate actions.  As you can tell from my answer there are three possible areas for miscommunication, so consider the following:

  • When your manager repeats the details are you annoyed? Silent? Checked out?  If yes, your manager has made an accurate assessment—you are not listening.
  • Is the conversation one-way or are you having a conversation with your manager for understanding and planning action?  If the latter, you are engaged and you will demonstrate that you are tracking the “details” as they are presented.

Remember: “I got it” is informal – colloquial or even slang—language.  Using more I got itformal terms to conduct business and convey professionalism will ensure that you communicate with accuracy and clarity.  At the end of your discussion, always provide a recap—not a repeat—for your manager:  For example, “I understand x, y and z, and that my next steps are as follows…”  Recapping at the end may feel stodgy and formal at first; however, with practice you will find your unique voice and have an engaging, two-way conversation.

Finally, enjoy Groundhog Day, Tuesday, February 2.  It’s highly unlikely that Punxsutawney Phil will see his shadow on the snowy ground this year, so that leaves you with six weeks of winter to go sharpen your communications skills.  Repeat after me:  Murray_Philpractice, practice, practice.

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