How to disagree, agreeably at Work?

How to disagree, agreeably & handle conflicts at work?

Conflicts are work are inevitable, especially in today’s VUCA world.

Badly handled they can lead to negativity and vitiate the atmosphere.

Here are some useful Tips.
(Some are from my own experience & some are picked up from multiple HBR articles.)

1. Doubt your assumptions. All perspectives are limited.

Ask yourself ‘What if I am wrong? How would that change my behaviour? What assumptions have I made? ‘

This is one lesson I learnt very early in my career and it stood me in good stead over 4 decades.

2. Treat the situation as a problem to be solved jointly.

What is the outcome you are looking for?

Do you want to finish a project? Build a long term relationship?  Feel less angry and frustrated?

Keep that prize foremost in mind.

3. Don’t resort to venting emotions or gossiping.

Choose intentionally who you talk to and what you share.

Take feedback from those who have your best interests at heart, who can change your perspectives and be discreet.

4. Experiment with  different solutions, see what works and change your stance accordingly.

5. Address the conflict, don’t avoid it. At work, as in all relationships, a good discussion and understanding makes the difference between a good and bad conflict.

6.  Understand where the other person is coming from. Walk a mile in her shoes.

Every person is at least 75% responsible for how others treat them.

7. Stick to facts. Ensure people are defending their ideas with logic and facts.

8. Don’t make it personal. No blame gaming or name calling. Avoid questions like ‘How could you believe that?

Assume everyone’s intentions are good.

9. Be intellectually humble. Respect others’ views and be willing to change your mind, when necessary.

10. Remember if everyone on the team agrees on everything, working together is pointless.

Please add other perspectives which may have helped you.

#skillgrill #work #conflict #career #hr #relationships