“Explain it like I’m a five-year-old.” Conquering the Curse of Knowledge in Training & Beyond

During my undergraduate years, I (very) often found myself in a state of confusion during the (long) Electrical Engineering lectures because I struggled to understand deriving the equations for ‘Power Swing Analysis for Out-Of-Step Protection’. I couldn’t even tell you what we were protecting. 

Fast forward a few years, I became a technical trainer eager to share my newfound knowledge. I passionately explained the different calculations to my students, but as I watched their faces, I realized my excitement had blinded me to the fact that they were staring at the same riddle of numbers and letters like I once had. 

That confusing period in university wasn't just my personal struggle; it's a classic example of something called the 'Curse of Knowledge.' This occurs when experts, like my lecturer (and then me), assume others share their understanding, leading to communication breakdowns and missed learning opportunities.  

As I transitioned from a college trainer to a learning and development professional, I realized that the Curse of Knowledge is a significant barrier to effective communication in almost any setting, especially in the professional world.

Breaking the Curse: 

Tip 1: Simplify Your Message: 

Imagine explaining the rules of a poker game to someone who has never shuffled a deck of cards.  That's the Curse of Knowledge in action! What may be crystal clear to you might not be as clear to others. Avoid using complex language when communicating. Instead, break down concepts into simpler terms that anyone can easily grasp.  

Tip 2: Seek Feedback: 

Constructive criticism is a powerful tool for growth. Don't hesitate to ask for feedback on your communication style. Colleagues, peers, even mentees may provide valuable insights that you might have overlooked. Ask questions during the presentation, use post-training surveys or seek casual opinions from colleagues. 
 

Tip 3: Adapt and Clarify: 

Be ready to adjust your communication style based on your audience's needs. Observe their facial expressions, body language, or ask simple questions to gauge understanding. This flexibility not only  helps overcome the Curse of Knowledge but also shows your commitment to ensuring that your message is understood. 

From Curse to Clarity 

In one of my recent training sessions to an audience of sales professionals, I took some time to learn about their world; day-to-day routines and the unique challenges they face in their daily tasks. I knew I needed to tailor my training on Active Listening around real-world sales scenarios. Instead of dry definitions, I showed them how simply mirroring a customer's statement – "I hear you, cost is always a factor. We can explore flexible payment options and tailor a plan that fits your budget. " – could instantly break down barriers and build trust. The effect was immediate. One participant even shared how mirroring helped him close a difficult sale by truly understanding the customer's underlying concerns. 

Today, I keep 3 questions in mind whenever I am preparing for a training or presentation: 

1. Can someone unfamiliar with the topic understand the key concepts? 

2. What relatable examples can I give to make the content more accessible? 

3. What tools have I put in place to gain feedback from my audience? 

Don't let the Curse of Knowledge silence your inner expert! Share this with a friend who could benefit from these tips and help spread the word on clear communication.