What do you do if your ideas and opinions are being dismissed in a team setting?

1 Identify the root cause

The first step is to understand why your ideas and opinions are being dismissed. Is it because of the content, the delivery, the timing, or the audience? Sometimes, it may not be about you at all, but about the group dynamics, the expectations, or the goals of the project. Try to analyze the situation objectively and see if there is anything you can improve or change in your approach. For example, you may need to do more research, provide more evidence, use more examples, or ask for feedback.

3 Use effective communication skills

The third step is to use effective communication skills to convey your ideas and opinions clearly and persuasively. This includes listening actively, asking open-ended questions, acknowledging different perspectives, using positive body language, and avoiding jargon or slang. You also need to be confident, assertive, and respectful, without being arrogant, aggressive, or passive. For example, you can use phrases like "I think", "I suggest", or "I propose" to express your opinions, and "I understand", "I appreciate", or "I agree" to show empathy and rapport.

4 Seek support and allies

The fourth step is to seek support and allies who can back up your ideas and opinions, or at least give you honest and constructive feedback. You don't have to do it alone, and you may benefit from having other people who share your views, values, or goals. You can also network with people who have more influence, authority, or expertise in the team or the organization, and ask for their advice, guidance, or endorsement. For example, you can find a mentor, a sponsor, or a peer who can help you improve your skills, showcase your strengths, or advocate for your interests.

5 Learn from feedback and rejection

The fifth step is to learn from feedback and rejection, and use them as opportunities for growth and improvement. You may not always get the response or the result you want, but you can always learn something from the experience. You can ask for specific and constructive feedback, and use it to refine your ideas and opinions, or to develop new ones. You can also handle rejection gracefully, and avoid taking it personally or letting it affect your self-esteem. For example, you can thank the person for their time and input, and ask for a chance to try again or to work on something else.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?