Actually, It’s Okay to Disagree With People at Work
Highlights
- Ask more questions: When you don’t agree with something, don’t immediately accept it. This can be hard when you’re just starting out or if you’re entering a new role. But if you ask respectfully — with curiosity and positive intent — you will likely be rewarded, not punished (View Highlight)
- Use it as an opportunity to learn: When you disagree, you come out the other side learning a new way to do something, which could sometimes be better and more efficient (View Highlight)
- Use it to hone your negotiation skills: Think about it this way: When you disagree with someone or something, you’re really negotiating. Successful negotiations are all about reaching a probable, mutually beneficial outcome. You’re trying to influence the other person to understand your point of view, and you’re trying to understand what matters to them (View Highlight)
- Disagreeing with someone is not about getting into a fight or about unkindness. It’s about how difference of opinions can lead to better work outcomes. So don’t assume that disagreements always lead to damaged relations. As long as you show respect to the other person, while safeguarding your self respect, disagreements can fuel better work relations and performance. (View Highlight)