Business and Woman

You have an obligation to yourself, your boss, and your organization to speak up when you disagree. One of the best ways to earn respect is advocating for your ideas with integrity, courtesy, and intelligence.

Strong organizations have courageous leaders.

Weakness gives in too soon.

Arrogance hangs on too long.

Foolishness speaks before thinking.

When the boss thinks you’re wrong but you think you’re right:

1. Make the boss feel understood. Do you fully understand her position? Ask questions.
2. Determine if it’s worth the fight.
3. Don’t give in if you’re convinced. Organizations need leaders with strong beliefs.
4. Advocate with courage and courtesy.
5. Engage them in private.
6. Explain your intentions and desired results. Describe the win.
7. Explore how you can give the boss what they need while hanging on to what you need.
8. Get the facts.
9. Test assumptions.
10. Search for options.
11. Embrace the big picture.
12. Include others in the conversation but don’t…