Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Overcome Resistance by Building Bridges

When your good idea meets resistance, you may be tempted to push your agenda harder, convinced you can enlighten your ignorant audience. But, telling everyone you have the perfect answer rarely makes believers out of them. Don't despair. Instead, ask people to participate in shaping your idea, rather than expecting their unconditional buy in. Connect with them on their terms. Tell them what your vision is and then invite them to critique and add to it. You'll need to be open to other solutions and let go of your certainty that you've got it right. Chances are it will become a better idea and you'll have more people on board to help you make it a reality.


Source: Harvard Business Review Blog - Today's Management Tip was adapted from "The Leadership Learning Moment That Wasn't" by Linda Hill & Kent Lineback

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