Laptops Don’t Have Cameras?!

"The laptops don't have cameras?"

That was the shocked response when a colleague discovered their brand-new work laptops were missing a now-essential feature.

Rewind to the early COVID era when in-person events became virtual overnight. A company specializing in personal events quickly pivoted, issuing new laptops to employees to support their transition.

IT received the request for seven new laptops, and seven arrived. As a bonus, they were a great price.

One problem. No cameras.

These were capable machines - except for one critical component needed for virtual events. When the requester informed IT of the issue, the response was:

"You never said you needed cameras."

Guess who had to purchase seven external webcams?

The Takeaway

Just because you think you are being clear doesn't mean your message is. Assumptions lead to misalignment, wasted resources, and unnecessary friction.

The next time you communicate a request, take a moment to ensure there's no room for misinterpretation.

Clarity isn't just about what you say but what they hear.