Communication 🗣️

Clear, open communication is key to success in the lab. The most successful lab members are those who communicate effectively—whether it’s asking questions, sharing challenges, or simply staying in touch with the team. Here are some thoughts to keep in mind:

Two Common Barriers to Communication 🚧

  1. Fear of asking questions:

    • Concern: “If I ask this, will I look inexperienced?”
    • Reality: No! It’s far worse to stay silent when you’re stuck. Speaking up is the fastest way to resolve issues and improve. We all want you to succeed, so ask questions and share challenges—you’ll get there faster by working together.

  2. Fear of “bothering” someone senior:

    • Concern: “Am I bothering the grad student/postdoc/PI by asking this?”
    • Reality: Don’t worry about bothering me or anyone else. I prefer that you speak up rather than stay quiet. We’re all here to support each other. If you’re unsure, I’ll let you know if you’re really bothering me (so far, that hasn’t happened yet!).

Why Speaking Up Helps You 💡

  • Increased productivity: Discussing problems and challenges helps you avoid getting stuck.
  • More support: The more you communicate, the more we can help you and work together to solve problems.
  • Growth: Learning to ask the right questions and talk through issues is a skill that makes you stronger as a researcher.

Work Hours & Communication ⏰

  • Weekends/after hours: I don’t expect responses outside of normal hours (unless there’s a clear, urgent deadline or event). I may send messages, but don’t feel pressured to reply until you’re back in work mode.
  • Urgency: If something critical comes up (e.g., paper submission, conference presentation), we’ll discuss strategies in advance, so you’re not left guessing.

Bottom Line

Communication isn’t just about talking; it’s about staying connected, asking for help, and supporting each other. By speaking up, you’ll make your work smoother and faster—and I’ll always have your back!