26/05/2026
The Meaning Gap: What Leaders Say vs. What Staff Hear.
Ever feel like you’re speaking a completely different language than your team?
As leaders, we usually mean well. We want to encourage autonomy, speed, and big ideas. But culture isn't built on our intentions, it’s built on what our teams experience every single day.
When we say “Take ownership,” but don't give them a map, they hear “Figure it out alone.” When we say “Move faster,” but penalise questions, they hear “Don't slow us down.”
This disconnect is The Meaning Gap, and it’s where organisational culture begins to fracture.
Get in touch with us to find out how we can help you close the gap and create a productive environment in your team.