Assumptions

In logic an assumption is a proposition that is taken for granted, as if it were true based upon presupposition without preponderance of the facts. (in other words it leaves a lot of room for (mis)interpretation)

Many interpersonal problems in organizations find their roots in assumptions.
Some examples :

• A boss tought he explained well, but the associate misunderstood him and didn't ask for more info.
• Two colleagues working together on a project and both tought the other one would do a certain task within the project and in the end it turns out none of the two did what the other one expected

The list of examples is endless and they cause a lot of problems, inefficiency (time & money) and can be the start of conflict.

There is only one place in the world where assumptions can rather make profit than loss and that is Hollywood. In movies filmmakers make you asume things, which create tension in a movie, and don't we all like that in a movie ?

But in real life, we don't live in Hollywood, and we are already under enough pressure because of our job. We don't need extra tension !.

So next time if something is not clear enough, ask for more information to make sure you understood the question well.
Next time you explain something to a colleague, let him rephrase what you told in his own words to make sure he understood it well and you talk about the same.

Usefull tip : you can be more clear by using "what, why, who, when, ..."