There are times when you would like to pitch your own idea or point out the mistakes of your boss/senior. It could also be some constructive criticism regarding a particular idea. But for some reason, you cannot express yourself or simply scared that you might sound offensive in doing so
According to research done by Fierce Conversations and Quantum Workplace, almost half of the workers don’t express their ideas/opinions on a regular basis at their workplace.
There are few things to keep in mind before you go out there and show all your guns at work. They are as follows –
There must be clarity in what you say
Share your opinions and speak up straight without beating around the bush and without demeaning the other person. You don’t need to fake it i.e. make your voice softer or be too loud. You can speak in your normal voice and still get your point across.
Stay calm and composed
It may happen that you are very passionate about the topic that is being discussed. There may be different opinions and which could thus lead to arguments. In such situations, it is important to stay calm, take a deep breath and start again. If you don’t calm yourself down then you might become aggressive and say things which are impolite.
Always be prepared
If you have to say something at a meeting or have an idea. It would be a great idea if you come prepared and do a bit more research-backed by data. This would give you more confidence in what you want to say and stutter less. This is because then you would be able to counter against opposing opinions with data and facts without being rude to the other person.
Your body language says a lot about you
When you are confident and right about something and want to mention it at work then it’s important to have a positive body language. This means either standing straight or keeping your back straight if you are sitting down. Don’t be too stiff, move too much, fidget or clench your jaws.
Avoid frowning, keeping a droopy face, hunching your back, point fingers and also avoid folding your hands.
It is ok to say no
It is ok to say no to work, even at the office to your boss. When you realise that you are being assigned too much additional work it is important that you learn to say no. It is not fair because you know that you will not be able to commit to it and meet the deadlines. But it may happen that you may say yes even after realising that it is not feasible. In such a case it is important to say no to the work right away. But it is important to state the reasons very clearly as to why you are saying no to the work.
Instead of simply pointing out the mistakes provide constructive criticism
It is important to point out mistakes when you think someone is wrong or incorrect. But it is important that you do it constructively, with reasoning and with suggestions to how it can be corrected. This is because sometimes people take it in the wrong sense or feel hurt if you simply just point out their mistakes. This happens when the person is receptive by nature.
Bottom Line
Be it work or your personal life speaking up for yourself or for the right things is very important. Also, it is important to note and keep in mind that you do so by keeping your calm, staying collected and not be too aggressive about it.
