We Keep Misreading Each Other's Messages

This exercise helps teams practice clear written communication and develop good habits for asynchronous collaboration. Learn to write messages that reduce misunderstandings and ensure everyone interprets them as intended.

Estimated time: 40 – 50 minutes

Introduction & Setup

5 minutes

Set the context and identify common written communication challenges.

Instructions

Explain the goal: improve written communication so messages are clear, complete, and interpreted correctly.
Acknowledge that written messages lack tone, body language, and immediate clarification, which makes misunderstandings common.
Share that this exercise will focus on practical techniques to write clearer messages and check for understanding.