To disagree is to have a different line of thought, opinion or belief; it means failing to conform, concur or correspond with a previously shared opinion or an arranged plan or action. To disagree means to have a divergent mindset from the given. Disagreements are a common part of every relationship. They can be quite common in the workplace.
Workplace and disagreements.
Employees and colleagues would not always see eye-to-eye on every issue, and this is what would result in a disagreement. Workmates and colleagues are expected to do things uniformly and cooperate every step of the way. Does this mean then that they are restricted from disagreeing amongst themselves? The answer is no. For one thing, disagreements when healthy often help to bring about the best results and practices. Plus, it would be unrealistic to expect people with different backgrounds, knowledge, skills and expertise to always agree on issues.
Healthy disagreements can be for the overall goal of the organization as this is true disagreements can be quite tricky. It is all too easy to become rude or saucy while expressing our different thoughts.
Necessary disagreements.
It might become necessary to disagree with your colleagues when or if the following is the case.
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You are positive that you can present a superior argument
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Disagreements are also necessary when you have better options offers or solutions and ideas
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If presented ideas would jeopardize or put anyone or yourself in a difficult position
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What is suggested is unachievable or unobtainable or irrelevant, unhelpful or mediocre.
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Goes against work or professional ethics
How to disagree with a coworker.
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Appreciate their thoughts first before presenting yours.
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Do not interrupt a colleague.
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Mind your facial expressions and body language. Be careful to avoid rolling your eyes or giving off signs with your body that show you are not in agreement. Here are a couple of tips for understanding body language.
https://www.verywellmind.com/understand-body-language-and-facial-expressions-4147228
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Sit through the entire session or meeting, do not walk out.
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Ask questions to understand clearly before objecting to your colleagues' sentiments.
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While voicing out your opinions do not belittle the opinions of others, avoid attacking the individual, and focus on the facts as they relate to the job. If you happen to be on the receiving end of condescension, there are mature ways to deal with that. https://smartsmssolutions.com/blog/119-sms-marketing/human-resource-and-business-skills/1559-how-to-deal-with-condescending-co-workers
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Find a common ground
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Do not raise your voice, get insulting or use sarcasm
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While objecting, state your reasons clearly.
Avoid saying things like.
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You are wrong
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That would be foolish
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There's no sense in that
Rather, put a dissenting opinion forward by saying things like.
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I hear you, but…
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Your concerns are valid, however…
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Let's look at it from this angle…
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Doing it the other way would be better because…
Speaking up to disagree with colleagues or your boss would not always be easy, but it's always for the best in the long run. For one thing, it creates an avenue for more flow of ideas and learning opportunities. It also fosters teamwork. See other things you can do to be a great team player. (How to be a team player). It also makes individuals more engaged in their jobs and ultimately leads to job satisfaction. As a boss, do not forget that satisfied employees are easier to retain and allow your employees to voice out their thoughts even when it doesn't align with yours. As a team leader, consider what you can do to improve team collaboration and minimize unnecessary and unproductive disagreements. (How to improve team collaboration).
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