As I have worked with organizations to resolve issues and build teams, I have learned that communication without context can be scary. Overheard snippets of conversation can lead to worry, conflict and chaos! What can you do to clarify context and reduce your worries?
Remember that overhearing is not the same as being told. Much like gossip, overhearing information should not be treated as fact. For example, you might hear someone talking about personal concerns that don’t relate to you. Don’t take it personally!
Usually, if it’s important, it will be formally stated. Major changes are typically announced with great fanfare and there is usually time to plan ahead and/or ask questions. Find out what’s really going on before you panic!
If it’s unclear, ask. If you weren’t paying attention—until it sounds like half of your department is getting cut, it’s fine to ask someone to repeat themselves rather than worrying or starting a rumor.
Say, “I don’t know.” Wrong information causes stress. If someone asks you to elaborate on something you don’t know much about, don’t give them an answer for the sake of answering. Wrong information causes more stress than simply saying, “I don’t know,” and/or referring them to someone who does know.
When things don’t add up, use logic and reason. If it doesn’t make sense, it probably isn’t true. Trust your intuition.
In case of discrepancies, confirm with the source. If you hear two different things, to ease your mind talk with the person in charge.
Less experienced people may have a more limited context. To put complex information into perspective, give newer people more information or history. If you are the new person, ask for the history.