In meetings where different points of view collide, disagreements are a normal part of working life. Your professional relationships as well as the outcome of the discussion can be affected by the way you voice your disapproval. Let’s take a look at productive ways to disagree in a meeting and still communicate in this blog post. These techniques will support you in creating a positive environment, where you see yourself having fruitful conversations, and constructively expressing your point of view.
“I Can Understand That Perspective…”
When you find yourself at odds with someone in a meeting, it’s usually a good idea to give them the benefit of the doubt. When you say, “I can understand that perspective,” pause for a moment and give a nod of agreement. This shows that you value their opinion and are receptive to learning more. “The way I see it is…” is a good way to subtly present your own viewpoint after this. This method establishes a cooperative atmosphere for the conversation.
“Something We Should Also Consider Is…”
Making a suggestion to expand the conversation is another powerful way to voice disagreement. Saying something like, “Something we should also consider is,” invites the group to look at other angles or aspects that might have gone unnoticed. Using this phrase encourages inclusivity and candid conversation by allowing you to present your viewpoint as part of a more thorough analysis.
“My View on This Is XYZ Because…”
To give your argument structure and clarity, take a direct stance such as “My view on this is XYZ because…” This enables you to succinctly and logically present your case. Even if they don’t end up agreeing with your viewpoint, you can help others understand it by providing a clear explanation of your reasoning. This strategy promotes a concentrated conversation about the advantages of your point of view.
“Another Way to Think About This Is…”
Divergences in opinions can occasionally be caused by different perspectives on a given problem or matter. When introducing a new viewpoint, use the phrase “Another way to think about this is…” etc. This communicates that you are not just rejecting the current proposal, but are also willing to consider alternative approaches. It fosters innovative ideation and collaborative problem-solving among team members.
Replace “But” or “However” with “And”
Swap out “But” or “However” with “And” Occasionally, the terms “but” or “however” can be interpreted as confrontational and contradict the preceding statement. Use “and” to create a link between your perspective and theirs instead of ignoring them. Say something like, “I hear your perspective, and my view on this is XYZ because…” or “I understand that perspective, and something we should also consider is…” This small alteration in wording keeps the tone happier and more cooperative.
Conclusion
Effective management of disagreements can foster innovation and growth. When you disagree in a meeting, keep in mind to respect other people’s viewpoints, expand the conversation, clearly state your position, offer new ideas, and speak in an inclusive manner. You can ensure that your voice is heard and respected in meetings and contribute to more productive and harmonious outcomes by becoming skilled in these diplomatic communication techniques.
