We tend to be less open and direct with people we don't like. Being truthful with some people and not with others impedes your ability to communicate openly and honestly with both.
The really sad thing about "unpopular" people is that they are unaware, hence unconcerned, about how others feel about them. Is it really their fault for not getting it? Is it right to call them idiots just because no one cares enough to provide them with honest feedback?
Clueless people are unaware that others find them difficult to be around. When they eventually discover the truth about how they come across, they react with surprise and dismay.
Once they get over the initial shock and the inevitable hurt feelings, the first question they ask is: Why didn't someone say something before this? Why indeed! When that question is posed to the unpopular person's coworkers their typical response is, "How could he not know; we gave him enough clues?
Clues are for mystery books and board games, not the workplace. Idiots are idiots because they don't get it. You must be clear and direct when communicating with people regardless of whether you like them or not. Clues and hints, no matter how frequent or how strong, won't get the desired point across.
Collaborative relationships form when expectations are clearly understood.
V. O. R.
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