In a recent LinkedIn post, Lindsay Linhart explores the critical difference between a communicator’s intentions and the actual impact their message has on others. Linhart emphasizes that while good intentions are important, they are secondary to how those intentions are perceived and experienced by the recipient.
Linhart highlights a common pitfall in communication: assuming that because one has a positive intent, the outcome will also be positive. This, according to Linhart, is a flawed perspective that can lead to misunderstandings and damaged relationships.
“Your intentions don’t land. Your delivery does.”
This core message from Linhart serves as a stark reminder that the effectiveness of communication hinges on execution, not just the thought behind it. Linhart elaborates on how good intentions can be undermined by poor delivery, leading to unintended negative experiences for others.
The Disconnect Between Intention and Impact
Linhart details several scenarios where intentions and impact diverge:
- An intention to be supportive can be perceived as criticism if the tone is sharp.
- An intention to be calm can be experienced as pressure if the body language is tense and words are rushed.
- An intention to empower can lead to feelings of distrust if one excessively controls outcomes.
As Linhart points out, “Intention is your experience. Impact is theirs.” This distinction is crucial, as it is the impact that ultimately shapes key aspects of our interactions and environments, including trust, culture, relationships, and leadership effectiveness.
Measuring Success by Creation, Not Conception
The post argues that individuals are not credited for what they *meant* to do but are instead measured by the tangible outcomes they create for others. This perspective applies broadly, extending from professional settings to personal relationships.
“We don’t get credit for what we meant. We are measured by what we create for others.”
Linhart advises against defending one’s intentions when faced with an unexpected or negative response. Instead, the focus should shift to examining the delivery method. The most effective communicators, in Linhart’s view, are not those with the purest intentions, but those who skillfully bridge the gap between their intended message and the feelings it evokes in others.
“The best communicators aren’t the ones with the best intentions. They’re the ones who close the gap between what they mean and what others feel.”
This emphasis on delivery and impact offers a practical framework for improving interpersonal and professional communication. By focusing on how our messages are received, we can foster stronger connections, build greater trust, and lead more effectively.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Lindsay Linhart on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on April 9, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →