Reminders Are Only Useful If They Are Given Before.

By: Bradley Binversie

“Reminders are only useful if they are given before.”

This is something that basketball coach, Tom Desotell, used to say to players and it is a good lesson on leadership and communication. Very often there is a disconnect between the message that we think we are communicating and the message that is being received. Other people simply cannot read our thoughts, so clear, concise, and FREQUENT communication is necessary.

Coach also used to say, “Sometimes common sense, isn’t so common.”

This also speaks to the need to give reminders and not make assumptions. Just because something appears obvious to us, doesn’t mean it appears obvious to the next person. Over communication is way better than, not enough when it comes to teams, families, and relationships.

One word of caution is that how you frame these reminders will distinguish the effect the reminders have on people:
1. Make the communication purposeful. Having unnecessary, large group meetings will bog everyone done and waste everyone’s time. Instead speaking individually or with small groups to illicit their feedback and have a conversation will keep engagement higher.

2. Build the culture of frequent reminders. If everyone understands that this is part of the team’s culture, it’s not micromanaging, it’s being helpful. When this attitude permeates throughout the organization, everyone is responsible for giving reminders.

3. Do not make assumptions. Assuming that your family members, client, or team members always understand and will always remember everything is difficult. Everyone has a lot going on in their lives, so take the time to do quick, POSTIVE check ins and give useful reminders. Dentists and doctors usually send out reminder notes before patients come, because they understand it’s helpful.

4. Share the accountability- when someone makes a mistake because they did not understand or they did not “remember”, it is also the fault of the rest of the team. Did you clarify with them enough? Did you check in? Did you give reminders? If not, why are you surprised that the ball was dropped?
I’ve added on to Coach Desotell’s saying… “Reminders are only useful, if they’re given beforehand, otherwise it’s just complaining.” If you’re looking to do things at a high level, be pro-active about it.

*This was written by Brad Binversie with the guidance of Coach Thomas Desotell.