Focus: Ambiguity (How to Manage an Obfuscated Workplace Dynamic)
by Darren Hood
First, let me say that this post is NOT about user experience. It does, however, address a topic that is critical to achieving success as a UX professional, though it has nothing to do with direct UX skill and knowledge. This blog post is about ambiguity—a factor that disrupts the psychological well-being and confidence around the globe.
Ambiguity. What is it? According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, something is ambiguous when it can be understood in two or more possible ways. It’s the feeling someone gets when they’re asked to do something and the ask is unclear. It can result in a ton of confusion, disempowerment, and disillusionment.
In the workplace, we are often exposed to high levels of ambiguity. Many job postings mentioned a candidate’s ability to thrive in the midst of ambiguity. Team members may communicate ambiguously. Leaders may communicate ambiguously. Clients and stakeholders might communicate ambiguously. Many such instances are just happenstance, but some people are purposely ambiguous.
Herein lies the challenge. Whether the ambiguity is intentional or not, the person on the receiving end must still operate and deliver. Because of the realities of ambiguity, a wise mindset calls for embracing them, learning to manage them, and being determined to thrive under such circumstances.
This blog post is being written to draw attention to the challenges of dealing with ambiguity. Rising to the challenge begins with having a can-do attitude. This should be immediately followed by learning about ambiguity, recognizing it, and developing sound strategies to overcome it.
Short and sweet, my contribution to these efforts (for now) will be to share articles on ambiguity for your review. These articles contain several insights, tips, and perspectives to help us all deal with one of the most common and indirectly destructive workplace realities.
Here’s a list of five articles that I’m hoping will bring some gravity and clarity regarding this topic:
- Hanover — How to Manage Ambiguity in the Workplace
- Psychology Today — Ambiguity at Work: How Your Approach Shapes Your Success
- Reflection Point — Why Dealing With Ambiguity Is The Skill We Desperately Need
- FlexHR — Leading Through Ambiguity: Five Strategies for Navigating Uncertainty at Work
- The Training Associates—5 Tips to Overcome Ambiguity at Work
I hope you find/found these articles enlightening. Ready to rise to the challenge? I hope this helps you get started.
Onward and upward, despite any challenges we may face—especially the ones that blindside us.
About Dr. Darren
Dr. Darren Hood is a 30+-year UX practitioner with a broad professional footprint across B2B and B2C operations and holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership. In addition to serving as a UX manager, individual contributor, and freelancer in the business world, Darren is serving or has served as an adjunct professor at Michigan State University, Champlain College, Brandeis University, Lawrence Tech University, Kent State University, UCLA, and Harrisburg University. He is also one of the authors featured in “97 Things Every UX Practitioner Should Know.” He also regularly speaks at conferences and mentors people worldwide.
You can hear more from Darren by visiting the KaizenUX Medium blog landing page, the KaizenUX YouTube channel, or by listening to The World of UX with Darren Hood wherever podcasts are available.
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