What do you do if your boss is resistant to innovative ideas or suggestions for improvement?

Conversar por lejos es la mejor herramienta. Trás una terquedad muchas veces hay presente inseguridad y desconocimiento. La escucha activa y mirar con ojos de oportunidad son claves. Dar y pedir feedback: - "esto es lo que entendí de lo que dijiste, ?estoy en lo correcto?". - "La innovación esta orientada a lograr XX ?Me logro dar a entender?" Fortalecer una comunicación, simple, directa, respetuosa y empatica son posibles en cualquier ambiente, solo que en ocasiones se requiere de un poco más de refuerzo. en todas las relaciones la comunicación es clave.

Three highly effective things to do when your boss is resistant to suggestions for improvement: 1. Utilize an invitational approach to offer suggestions. Be mindful of the timing and environment for this conversation. 2. Prepare. Take into account what matters to them. Explore what might be their fears. Prepare yourself by empathizing with them by positioning yourself in their shoes and asnwering: "I feel... because...." What is coming up for you? 3. Consider that their "no" to suggestions in a professional setting might indicate that they seek space and time to process and assess the proposal. We may interpret this as a permanent rejection, when in reality, they may simply need more data/facts/clarity. Ask to continue the dialogue.

Actively listening and empathising can be transformative. By asking probing questions that delve into underlying concerns and potential solutions, we can elevate the conversation to a more meaningful level. This deeper dialogue often reveals the root causes behind resistance or challenges, leading to a clearer understanding of the situation and more effective strategies for moving forward.

If your boss is resistant to new ideas, Simon Sinek might suggest starting with "why"—communicate how your ideas align with the organization's values and vision. Approach from a place of understanding and curiosity rather than opposition. Frame innovations as a means to advance common goals, and be open to feedback. It's important to foster an environment where trust is built and the leader feels confident in exploring new avenues.

Procura un entorno que sea óptimo, el momento propicio es tan importante como la empatía y la presencia y también el silencio. Permitir que el otro logre conectar con eso que verdaramente quiere decir. Generar un ambiente y una conversación que vaya dando paso a la profundización. Las barreras van cayendo a medida que se genera confianza mutua. No solo lo que conversas, sino que dónde, cúando y cómo se genera el ambiente suma grandes ventajas.

Choosing the right timing and setting is a strategic move that demonstrates respect for your boss's time and workload. It also subtly indicates that you have thoughtfully considered your proposal, increasing its perceived value. This approach not only maximizes your chances of a positive reception but also sets a professional tone for the discussion, laying a foundation for a constructive dialogue about innovative solutions.

Timing is everything. Your boss will be more open to your ideas and suggestions when they are not in the middle of putting out a fire or strategizing on something else. Be SMART with your ideas and come prepared on how to implement them with financial and people resources.

Face à un patron réfractaire aux idées novatrices, voici six étapes pour naviguer efficacement dans cette situation : 1. évaluez la réceptivité de votre patron : est-il ouvert à la discussion ou fermé à toute idée de changement 2. Adaptez votre approche à sa personnalité et à la culture de l'entreprise. 3. Communiquez les avantages des idées novatrices avec clarté : présentez vos idées de manière claire et concrète, en mettant l'accent sur les avantages tangibles pour l'entreprise. 4. Créer des alliances : identifiez les alliés qui pourraient soutenir vos propositions et utilisez des données pour convaincre. 5. Soyez patient et persévérant, en reconnaissant les limites. 6. Réévaluez régulièrement et ajustez votre stratégie en conséquence

Choosing the right time and the right place is crucial because many of the pitch and ideas that are turned down it's because of the wrong time and setting, it could be that at the moment the companies might not be headed in the direction of your idea or the boss might be caught up and brush you off. Choosing the right time and setting increases your chance of outlining your idea when it's ideal and in an ideal setting. It shows respect to the bosses time and efforts. It gives you time to research and concrete a plan or idea that aligns with the companies brand strategies.

Já ouvi a frase: “Contra fatos n?o há argumentos!”. Pois é, apresentar dados comprovando o que estamos falando é algo crucial para que a gest?o entenda, compreenda, aceite e decida fazer o que precisa ser feito! Números, gráficos e relatórios s?o importantes e decisivos, mesmo na área de RH. Precisamos aprender, entender e utilizar essas ferramentas para sermos mais estratégicos e assertivos. Aproveite e utilize isso a seu favor. Dá trabalho!? Dá! Mas vale a pena!

Siempre una opinión validada ofrece la confianza de poder generar resultados. Por ello, el respaldo con datos, estadística, casos de éxito son elementos que incrementa nuestra "autoridad" al momento de ofrecer una solución.

I agree all that mentioned above. You should do a research that will improve the probability of your innovative idea's success. You can also prepare a plan for a pilot, including several success rates and measures, define very specific time line, and make sure it will affect the day to day work the least that possible. Be proactive, creative, do not ask for any budget for that before you show reasults... Good Luck!

Mucha de la resistencia de los jefes a las innovaciones y los cambios modernos puede venir de su ego, su miedo y el miedo a lo desconocido, pero bien documentado, soportado y explicado cualquier resistencia se supera, sobretodo cuando lo que se implementarátraerá mejoras en todos los ámbitos de la empresa y de los trabajadores y ejecutivos.

Doing a PowerPoint or having some factual research on paper showing your boss the importance of your innovative idea can sway their decision. Then you can also get some research showing how other well-known businesses that uses this same idea has helped these other companies to thrive and become more efficient and productive.

The Diplomat’s Guide to Navigating Risks 1. Anticipate and Prepare: Before you step into the arena, arm yourself with knowledge. Anticipate potential concerns and risks associated with your proposal. Preparation doesn’t make you invincible, but it sure helps when questions start flying. 2. Acknowledge and Validate: When concerns are raised, acknowledge them with the grace of a seasoned diplomat. Validation doesn’t mean agreement; it means you respect the perspective enough to consider it. 3. Data is Your Sword: Arm yourself with data, studies, and precedents. When addressing risks, nothing speaks louder than cold, hard facts. It’s like showing up to a sword fight with Excalibur; you’re not just armed, you’re making a statement.

"Proponer cambios o innovaciones en el lugar de trabajo viene con su cuota de riesgos y preocupaciones, tanto para el negocio como para quien propone. Una estrategia efectiva para abordar esta situación es presentar nuestras ideas junto con un análisis detallado de riesgos y beneficios. Esto no solo demuestra un pensamiento crítico y responsabilidad, sino que también prepara el terreno para una discusión constructiva sobre posibles obstáculos y cómo superarlos. Al reconocer abiertamente los desafíos, mostramos compromiso con el éxito del negocio y con nuestra crecimiento profesional, fomentando un entorno donde las ideas innovadoras pueden ser cuidadosamente evaluadas y, cuando sea apropiado, puestas en práctica."

"You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make 'em drink." Bosses are no different. "Mules (you) are smart, but stubborn". How do you get the horse to drink? 'Salt Licks'. Season your ideas and make them irresistible. Carnegie Business School: "You get five NO's for every yes".

Embrace the roles of DREAMER, REALIST, and CRITIC! When presenting an idea, don't just sell it in a positive light. Utilize anti-selling tactics as well. This approach ensures that the listener understands the idea is thoroughly considered and appropriately balanced. When expressing concerns and risks, always provide potential solutions as well.

Know who your dealing with so your approach is non threatening Speak your truth to power & show the value of why you stand behind your ideas Don’t try to show them up as it could backfire

Remember, a 'NO' doesn't always mean it's a dead end! When pitching your ideas, don't assume they'll always be met with immediate agreement. Instead, view 'no' or disagreement as an opportunity to strengthen your arguments. Winning another chance is a victory in itself. That's when you can swiftly turn a 'no' into a 'yes'.

I learned that a No can quickly turn into a Yes after showing your boss the consecuences of not changing, like losing customers and losing that competitive edge. Explaining how implementing these advances could save time and money will make the conversation about change and investment easier. Be very patient and careful. It's never easy to make a person who has been successful for over 50 years doing things "his way" to consider an absolutely different way of operating. I learned this when working with my father. Merging his wisdom and experience with well researched innovation and careful implementation was the way to go. No doubt, t's a test of your persistance, tact, and communication skills.

It is important to listen to the feedback and reasons why your ideas were not taken on board. And also very important not to take it personally. I am aware of how many professionals find it challenging not to take feedback personally, but it's important to remember that rejection of your ideas doesn't reflect your capabilities. Instead of being discouraged, continue offering suggestions and remain confident in your abilities. And by showing willingness to understand and cooperate you are also demonstrating two very important interpersonal skills: 1. Adaptability - being open to adjusting your approach based on this feedback. 2. Open-mindedness allowing you to consider alternative perspectives and solutions.

Suggest setting up regular check-ins to evaluate progress and address any new concerns. Sometimes, having someone else in your corner can make all the difference. If there's someone at your workplace who's respected by your boss and supportive of your ideas, their endorsement can add weight to your suggestions.

Change resistance can stem from various factors beyond just the leadership. It could be due to fear of the unknown, lack of understanding about the change, or concerns about how it will impact individuals or teams. In such cases, involving all necessary stakeholders and gaining their buy-in is crucial. This ensures that everyone is on the same page, understands the rationale behind the change, and feels included in the decision-making process.

Dare to take a risk in something that can start from small but will could be a change on a bigger scale. Bring the results to your boss and wait for it… success !!

When your boss isn't quite on board with new ideas or suggestions, it's all about crafting a convincing case. You've got to show them how these innovations can really make a difference. Use data - numbers, real-life examples, and stories of success to paint a vivid picture of the benefits. Tailor your pitch to match your boss's priorities and goals while ensuring that they align with the organizational goals as well.

I've worked with several principals at school, and their leadership styles, personalities, and backgrounds are all different. Therefore, the way we approach them should also be different. When dealing with a boss who experiences emotional ups and downs, it is crucial to find the right time and place to communicate. If someone's decision-making style is slow, we should give them space to consider our suggestions or ideas. Conversely, when working with a boss who is more open-minded, we can request meetings to discuss further and provide insights and reasons. Importantly, we are all human and nobody is perfect. Building positive relationships is crucial for fostering strong rapport, which in turn makes everyone more receptive to new ideas.

Bluntly, having been in this situation more than once in my previous life, start looking for a new job. Resistant bosses don't change in the long term, and will be looking for failure points to leverage as reasons to go with their way of thinking, rather than as learning opportunities to grow. To paraphrase a classic self-ownership quote, "You can't change the boss you report to, but you can change the boss you report to."