Challenging a leader entails a delicate balance between assertiveness and respect. When dealing with a forceful leader who is open to being challenged but can be aggressive and tough to convince, team members can use the following strategies to courageously and constructively put their views forward.
Gather facts, data, and examples to support your views before challenging the leader. Well-prepared arguments are more likely to be taken seriously.
Select a suitable moment to discuss the issue, preferably when the leader is not under high stress or in a public setting.
Begin by acknowledging the leader's perspective and the parts of their argument with which you agree. This shows respect and helps create a more receptive atmosphere.
Express your concerns using "I" statements such as "I feelā¦" or "I believeā¦." This phrasing will help you avoid sounding accusatory while claiming ownership of your views.
Home in on the problem or decision at hand to avoid attacking the leader personally or putting them on the defensive.
Show that you value the leader's opinions by listening carefully to their responses and acknowledging their points. Use open-ended questions to encourage dialogue and help the leader see the issue from a different perspective.
Don't just point out problems; provide potential solutions or alternatives that address the leader's concerns while incorporating your views.
Stand firm in your convictions but do so respectfully. Avoid becoming emotional or aggressive, as this can undermine your credibility.
If the leader doesn't immediately accept your views, don't give up. Continue to gather evidence, let developments educate the leader, and revisit the issue when appropriate. āÆ
Todayās workforce often includes a mix of permanent employees, freelancers, and outside contractors ā but even organizations with mostly external workforces or highly autonomous workforces need proximity to succeed over the long...
Few things are scarier than being at the front of the room and losing your audience. Consult the checklist of questions below to understand why people are reacting negatively to what you...
Many CHROs have yet to understand the implications of GenAI for their employees. Test your knowledge of how it differs from ātraditionalā forms and check out the tips on integrating GenAI tools...
Have you ever found yourself in a scenario when, as leader,āÆyouāre expected to know the answer to a question but donāt? In the second of a two-part series, Francesca Giulia Mereu suggests...
Explore first person business intelligence from top minds curated for a global executive audience