On this election day, I am reminded to apply some of the political banter to principles we should live by in the business world. Recently I received one of those "e-mails to the world", urging me to vote a certain way, from an acquaintance.
It was filled with statements like: "Those who believe this simply aren't informed" "They haven't done their homework" And, "This is not important, but that is" Or, "You are foolish to feel this way"
What is wrong with these? How do they apply to our organizations and how we treat each other?
Suggestions:
1) Handle emotional issues privately, 1 to 1, not in front of others. An audience can increase the temptation to dig our heels in, and not really listen. The issue is not the issue when pride is at stake.
2)When people simply disagree with us, accept their position as valid to them and listen to their point before launching into why they're wrong. Why? Listening may promote learning and even enlighten one's position. It also will give you the key to reasoning with them because they see that you're trying so understand them.
3) Do not make accusations, rather simply agree that they have a point, but that it differs from yours. Make sure they know that you respect their position, even though you may not agree.
4) Understand that our differences add value to each of us if we allow them to do so. If differing points of view cause us to think, then hopefully we can collectively come up with a consensus that is stronger than either of our individual points.
5 If all else fails, agree to disagree. Respect for the other person's strong values is crucial here, especially when we must deal with each other on a consistent basis.
I hope you voted today and will respect the outcome reverencing our great Country and right to not only vote, but express our opinions.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment