Are you actually listening to the other side?
When we get worked up in conversation, we become so focused on saying exactly what we’re going to say that we don’t spend the time necessary to understand the counterargument.…
Present your ideas inclusively, not combatively
You’re both on the same team working toward a better solution When faced with disagreement, our basic human instincts often lead us astray; we either fight tooth and nail for…
Do the work required to have an opinion
Take fifteen minutes, an hour, a day, or even a week depending on what’s really at stake Ask yourself, “What if I’m wrong?”. Gather facts and details that support the…
What are we actually disagreeing about?
When faced with a major decision, both parties should ideally agree on the overall direction and big picture items Above the line thinking concerns broader concepts and general direction. Below…
How to Disagree With Your Coworkers Productively
If you’ve ever worked closely with someone else in a work environment (so pretty much everyone), you’ve had a disagreement. Maybe you didn’t agree with the current approach for tackling…
You are not your idea
Avoid identifying too closely with your ideas The trick is to balance passionate conviction with realistic expectations If your idea doesn’t get adopted, that’s not a personal attack on you;…
Rethink Ways of Working
When the business needs change, your role and practices should also change. Reshaping how you show up as a leader to get through leaner, winter times is something that should…
Encourage transparency
It is a disservice to filter information, and a mark of respect to invite team members into the conversation as they face upcoming difficulties. Share transparently, directly, and kindly and…
Stay flexible and data-informed
Track leading indicators: Identify and track leading indicators to inform day-to-day decisions and hiring decisions. Exercise caution with reactivity: Determine how confident you are in the information and what the…
To win, you’ve got to stay in the game
To do that, you need to efficiently manage through lean times Watch expenses Get tight on core priorities Increase profitability Re-prioritize near-term (next 6 month) opportunities that can generate revenue…
