So you need some help persuading a stubborn boss to see your side of things? What is one to do when faced with such a nagging problem?
Well, you have two choices:
1. You could sit back and have a pity party
2. You could do something about it
This article is mainly concerned with the latter approach. So without further adieu, here’s what you can do:
• Don’t be defensive
One of the best tips is don’t clam up into a shell. Being defensive will just breed animosity, and prevent you from being productive. Face it: your boss is not going to agree with every single suggestion you run by his desk. If you think you can do things better maybe you should consider starting your own small business.
• Go on the offensive
Write down some ways you can counterattack this problem. One way could be to come up with ’10 ways’ this or that can be improved. If you can show your boss you are a ‘team player’ than he will be more willing to listen to you down the road. First prove you can save the company money or reduce the amount of time it takes to complete a task and you will be looked at as an invaluable resource. By the way, you should be doing this anyway. You never know when a company will decide to trim the fat.
• Make it a collaborative effort
Ahh…the power of groups. Think about it like this: Are you more confident on the streets at night when surrounded by a group of friends or when you are alone? Leverage the power of many to your advantage. See if you can’t get your co-workers in your department – and others – to side with your point of view. With them on board, your suggestions have more sticking power.
• Write your boss a letter
Yeah…that’s right I said it. Write your boss a letter describing how you feel, and perhaps he will see things from your point of view. If you aren’t sure how to craft this delicate letter get some help from your spouse or colleagues you trust. Once you start typing the energy will flow onto the page. Just make sure you edit and proofread before you submit. Print it on parchment paper for an authentic feel.
• Put on your detective hat
Are there any competitors who have just launched a new product line? Are your competitor’s web sites appearing before yours on the SERPs (search engine results pages)? Do your competitors have a blog that is continuously updated? What kind of content is in their newsletters? Start digging around (ethically, I might add) and put together a power point presentation for your boss. Compare with charts and tables how the competition is doing things different. Show where your strengths are – and in what areas they are killing you.
Do these things and I can practically guarantee the days of having a stubborn boss will be long gone.