Have you ever said something that made perfect sense in your head… only to be met with blank stares from the people you’re talking to?
Maybe you’ve repeated it – maybe louder this time – only to get the same confused reaction.
Well, I’ve been there. In today’s episode, I’m going to tell you a story that involves SeaWorld, my kids, and a very famous whale – and I promise, there’s a point.
Because whether you’re leading an HR team, presenting to the C-suite, or just trying to get your own kids to cooperate for a photo, how you communicate can make or break the moment.
I’ll explore how intention doesn’t always equal impact, why clarity is kindness, and what this has to do with your role as an HR leader.
Plus, I’ll share some practical communication strategies you can start using immediately to increase trust, connection, and influence.
Let’s dive in.
When our kids were little, we took a family trip to SeaWorld. It was one of those perfect vacation days – sunshine, snacks, everyone getting along. You know the drill.
At one point, we came across this striking statue of a black-and-white orca whale. I saw it and instantly thought: That would be the perfect spot to snap a picture of the kids.
So, I cheerfully said, “Hey guys, go stand by Shamu so I can take your picture!”
They just stood there. Totally still. Blank stares.
So I repeated myself: “Go stand by Shamu so I can take your picture.” Still nothing. No movement.
Now I was starting to get frustrated. I tried again, this time with a slightly raised voice: “Please go stand by Shamu so I can take your picture!”
More confusion. Still no action.
And then – my husband stepped in. Calmly, he said, “Kids, go stand by Free Willy.”
Their eyes lit up. “Ohhhh!” they said. And just like that – they ran right over and posed perfectly.
Same message. Different words. Drastically different result.
HR Is The Bridge
That moment stuck with me, because it’s a powerful reminder that what we say isn’t always what people hear.
I was using a reference that made sense to me – “Shamu.”
But my kids didn’t know who Shamu was. They weren’t SeaWorld kids – they were Free Willy kids.
And as silly as it seems, this happens every single day in the workplace.
- You tell your team to be “more strategic,” and they start changing the calendar instead of the priorities.
- You ask for a “more polished presentation,” and they just add more slides.
- You explain a new policy once and assume it’s clear – but the questions keep coming.
In HR, you’re expected to be the bridge between leadership and the workforce.
Clear communication is one of your most essential tools.
But here’s the trap: we often assume that because we’ve said something clearly to us, it must be understood clearly by them.
It doesn’t work that way.
What Should HR Do?
So what can you do?
Here are three quick shifts that can help you become a more effective communicator:
- Know Your Audience
Are you speaking “Shamu” to someone who only knows “Free Willy”? Adjust your language to match their world. Use references they relate to and language they already understand. - Check for Understanding
Don’t just ask, “Any questions?” Ask, “Can you tell me what your next steps are, based on what I just shared?” Their answer will tell you more than their silence ever will. - Repeat and Reinforce
Especially in times of change, one email or announcement isn’t enough. Use multiple channels and messages over time. Repetition builds clarity – and trust.
Why It Matters For HR Professionals
I tell this story and share these tips because I’ve worked with so many HR professionals who are doing great work, but aren’t getting the traction or influence they want.
Often, it’s not a lack of strategy – it’s a communication gap.
The good news? This is a skill you can learn and refine.
Whether you’re navigating difficult conversations, presenting to executives, or trying to get buy-in on a new initiative, how you show up as a communicator matters.
It shapes how others see you – and whether they’re willing to follow your lead.
Weekly Challenge
Here’s your challenge this week:
Pick one conversation – just one – where something didn’t quite land the way you intended.
It could be a meeting, an email, a policy rollout, or even a hallway chat.
- Reflect: What did you say? What do you think they heard?
- Ask: If it’s appropriate, follow up with the person and ask for their takeaway from the conversation.
- Adjust: Identify one way you could reframe or clarify your message for better alignment next time.
This isn’t about beating yourself up – it’s about getting curious. Because the more aware we are of how we’re being received, the more effective we become as communicators and leaders.
And if you try this challenge, I’d love to hear how it goes. You can reach out to me on LinkedIn or email me at Kristen@nullHRHigherVersion.com.
Thanks again for being here. And remember, it’s not always about saying more – it’s about saying what they can understand.
Until next time, remember to keep leading, keep growing, and keep striving for that next higher version of yourself.
