How Can I Disagree With A Coworker Respectfully?

Disagreements are healthy and necessary in the workplace.

How you handle them will make or break your professional relationships.

When you disagree with a colleague, it is important to express your honest opinion without offending that person.

For this to work, pay close attention to your:

Body Language — What You Do

Verbal Language — What You Say

Build trust and transparency in your workplace relationships with appropriate non-verbal communication.

To convey interest:

• Lean slightly toward the other person

• Keep eye contact

• Maintain an open and relaxed posture

• Tilt your head or nod slightly

• Be specific, open, and direct when talking.

• Communicate your feelings and needs appropriately and respectfully.

• Keep the conversation focused on the specific behaviors, work practices, or communication at issue and avoid personal attacks.

Watch this video to learn some helpful tips to manage workplace conflict wisely.

Scenario

Richard is angry that his team missed a crucial project deadline. At a team meeting, he accuses Lily of dropping the ball. Lilly doesn't think she's to blame and wants to confront Richard without making the situation worse.

Now it's your turn to put into practice what you've learned.

Try to think of a past situation where you disagreed with a coworker. How did you react?

Using the tips from this Byte, imagine how you would respond if you were in the same situation again.