Question: Based on your experience, what is the best way to handle a disagreement with a colleague? What happened, and how did you handle the situation?
Seek a Mediator
"When having disagreements with colleagues, I believe the best solution is to seek the assistance of a mediator. The mediator needs to be someone who can quickly understand both concerns. Using this technique, these disagreements can be quickly settled so there is no big argument."
@suprexlearning
Don't Point Fingers
"Never assign blame. Your goal is to seek a compromise, and if you immediately start attacking the other person, they’re going to be far less willing to listen to what you have to say. In all the arguments I’ve had, I always made an effort to both acknowledge my own faults and understand the other person’s perspective."
@steven_buchwald
Get to the Point
"Businesses rely on individuals working in unison towards a common goal, and sometimes achieving that goal puts pressure on various aspects of a relationship. Discover objective data that everyone can agree upon. Disagreements are usually a result of different perspectives colliding on the same point. If you trust each other to get down to the heart of the issue, you can build a true relationship."
@trueinteraction
Listen
"Sometimes disagreements arise and two parties are on different pages, maybe even in different books -- yet neither party knows it. By stopping to listen, you may be able to get on the same page (or at least in the same chapter), and determine how to effectively communicate to achieve conflict resolution."
@elev8cg
Be Receptive
"Talk things through after both of you have had some food and a good night’s rest. Sometimes, what you intend is not always what is received. Listening and being aware of the impact you have made -- and being receptive to change -- is key. Express your thoughts and feelings in a way that shows you're not interested in pointing fingers, only interested in finding a solution that works."
@ALIGNEDSIGNS
Mirror Their Stance
"If things are escalating, quickly reposition yourself and put yourself in your 'opponent's' shoes. Mirror back to them what you're understanding of their perspective and ask a clarifying question. Once you reach an agreement that you are accurately understanding their position, you can speak to them about your stake in the issue."
@ArryinSeattle
