"The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place." - George Bernard Shaw

My husband loves to surprise me with flowers. So why did I feel a surge of anger when he presented me with a beautiful bouquet of daisies?

It turns out, "common sense" isn't so common. In Chinese culture, daisies are often associated with death and ancestor worship. My subconscious mind, steeped in those traditions, interpreted his loving gesture as a not-so-subtle wish for my early demise!

After a (slightly heated) discussion, we realized the problem wasn't malice but a simple lack of shared understanding. He didn't know the cultural connotations of daisies, and I'd assumed he did.

This experience became a powerful metaphor for my work with virtual assistants (VAs).

Bridging the Culture Gap: Why Common Sense Needs to Be Communicated

Just like my husband and I operate from different cultural perspectives, so too do I and my VAs. Assuming they share my understanding of "common sense" is a recipe for frustration, misunderstandings, and costly mistakes.

Here are a few things I've learned about bridging the culture gap with my VAs:

• Overcommunicate Everything: Don't assume they know what you mean. Be explicit about your expectations, preferences, and even seemingly obvious cultural nuances.

• Provide Context and Background: Explain the "why" behind your requests. Helping them understand the bigger picture fosters better decision-making.

• Embrace Cultural Exchange: Be open to learning about their culture and perspective. This builds rapport and fosters mutual understanding.

• Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions: Encourage them to ask clarifying questions. It's better to address confusion upfront than deal with a daisy debacle later.

From Daisy Debacle to Dream Team: Building a Foundation of Trust and Communication

By embracing open communication and recognizing that "common sense" is subjective, I've been able to build a strong and trusting relationship with my VAs.

They've become invaluable partners, not just task-completers, because we've taken the time to understand each other's perspectives and build a foundation of clear communication.

So, the next time you're tempted to assume your VA "should just know," remember the daisy dilemma. Embrace communication, bridge the culture gap, and watch your VA relationships flourish!

Have you experienced a "common sense" clash with your VA? Share your story and tips for better communication in the comments below!