5 ways to respectfully disagree with someone

We all have our differences, it is clear that each one has positions and ways of seeing life that will not always have the approval of everyone. However, this does not mean that we cannot find a way to improve the way we express that disagreement, as many times we get carried away by anger and end up fighting over something that could have been resolved with a little more flexibility.

This happens in all areas of our life, but one of those that can be affected the most is our career, our work. An argument with a colleague for not agreeing on how to make a presentation can turn into a nightmare if we do not know how to control ourselves or manage our emotions.

Discover 5 ways to disagree without creating more disputes or heated conversations.

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5 strategies to respectfully disagree

1. Start by pointing out the good

If we start a conversation with the negative, there is no going back, but if we start by pointing out the positive qualities of the other person, the verbal encounter can be more fruitful.

The other person also has good reason to defend their point of view. Recognize them and from there you can start to build something new, even if it is not what you have originally thought or does not fully suit your tastes. Teamwork is basically about being respectful.

Ser más respetuoso al señalar lo bueno de la otra persona

2. Don’t accuse, say how you feel

One of the most common mistakes is to accuse the other before expressing our feelings. Clearly, there are reasons to feel uncomfortable or insecure, but that is no excuse to rush to accuse the other person.

A suggestion or concern is best received if we express ourselves correctly. A good way to do this is by bringing out our feelings instead of the mistakes of the other. Expressing our fear or our doubts about a proposal can make the other person explain to us why that proposal should be one way and not another.

Cómo expresar un desacuerdo de forma respetuosa

3. Focus on the facts, not your frustration

When we’re upset at work, all we can think about is how long it will take to fix a bug or improve a situation. But do not despair, make a mental list of the events that occurred and the possible consequences in a professional and polite way.

There is no need to heat things up or point out culprits. A logical, fact-based argument is more reliable than a complaint of sudden annoyance or frustration.

Ser más respetuoso implica concentrarse en los hechos

4. Listen carefully

An elementary quality that you must develop is listening to the other. Listen to it without interrupting it, without waiting your turn to respond. Many people only pretend to listen so they can respond with something strong and hurtful, and it shouldn’t be.

A good relationship at work depends on how well professionals have the ability to communicate well and collaborate based on it. You can learn a lot from someone just by listening to them, don’t forget!

Estrategias para mostrar educadamente tu desacuerdo

5. When the time comes, let it go

From time to time, a respectful agreement will not be reached. However, we can choose to put our ego aside and make amends. Someone must give his arm to twist, and why not you? Next time you will have more luck. Don’t get hooked forever on a single topic or issue.

Nor is it good to pretend. You are not required to agree with someone . If you are not comfortable and have already struggled to come to an agreement without positive results, it is better to walk away. A good professional knows how to walk away when the time is not right to continue fighting. That will not be the only battle you will fight, you still have a lot to win!

conclusion

By being respectful you will reap good working relationships , everyone will be more comfortable with you and will enjoy sharing a part of their lives with someone so professional, respectful and mature. Remember not to involve your feelings too much, be up to the situation and defend your point of view, because it matters, a lot. And if someone is very pushy, let them go.

You don’t need to argue or disguise your point of view to always agree with everyone. There is an appropriate way to present your arguments, and that effort also deserves to be rewarded with an effort of equal magnitude.

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References

  • Boogard, K. 6 Smart Ways to Disagree With Someone Respectfully. For Inc. [Revised September 2017]