How to Disagree and not be a Disagreeable Person
Red diamonds are known as the most expensive and the rarest diamond color in the world. It is Communication Intelligence’s hope that the quotes shared in this section of the magazine will be rare “finds” that will be highly valued.
“Agreeing in principle is very different than agreeing with the person, and it enables us to, in essence, disagree with them while still acknowledging their stance.
“This is done by using specific phrases such as, ‘I realize that you think X,’ or ‘I appreciate that you think X,’ or ‘I respect that you think X,’ followed by the word ‘and…then simply restating your own idea or purpose.
“This empowers you to set your own boundaries and disagree with someone’s requests or ideas, while avoiding seeming disagreeable,”
Stephen McGarvey, founder of the consulting firm, Solutions In Mind
“Few of us ever intend to be disagreeable in our interactions with others. A lot of leaders communicate with the best of intentions and still fail to realize when the impact of their communication is different from what is intended.
“Learning how to disagree without being disagreeable means considering the intent and impact of your communication and then disagreeing or presenting alternative ideas in a way that has the best possible outcome.
Stephen McGarvey, founder of the consulting firm, Solutions In Mind
“Have the flexibility to match your communication with the way the other person processes information. Although communicating with others seems simple, there are intricacies because we all communicate differently.”
“Understanding how to listen effectively is a key skill in improving communication and is necessary to disagree without being disagreeable. Based on what we hear in the other person’s communication, we have the ability to adjust how we communicate with them.
“You’re really communicating to others that you’re a strong, effective leader and an empathetic individual.
Stephen McGarvey, founder of the consulting firm, Solutions In Mind
“Developing the skills to effectively persuade and influence others will open doors in your professional, as well as your personal life, as you’re able to better communicate with others and lead them with integrity toward your desired goals as well as their desired goals for themselves.”
Stephen McGarvey, founder of the consulting firm, Solutions In Mind
