12/03/2024

How to Disagree across Power Structures

Here are five questions that invite collaboration and understanding

Where there's conflict, there's disagreement. However, disagreement doesn't have to lead to conflict — especially if you know how to disagree without disconfirming. For executives, making difficult decisions requires building conflict capacity and the ability to navigate tensions constructively.

Yet, the more significant challenge often lies with colleagues or subordinates who need to question or challenge the authority of a decision-maker. Disagreement across power structures can easily provoke feelings of intimidation, defensiveness or avoidance — none of which serve the leader or the organization.

The key to disagreeing across power structures lies in challenging ideas without disconfirming or invalidating the other person. By using five strategic and thoughtful questions, you can foster understanding, encourage collaboration and navigate disagreements effectively.

Please select this link to read the complete article from SmartBrief.