What do you do if your boss is resistant to supporting your ideas and initiatives?

First and foremost, take a deep breath. It is quite a difficult situation to be in, and can be frustrating or stressful. Then indeed, try to understand their perspective. Easier said that done? Try this. Approach your boss and : - establish the context: "I was surprised when you said xyz". Stay factual and avoid finger pointing (hence checking in on your emotions first is important!) - pause. It gives them the opportunity to recall and reflect. Maybe they say "Oh this isn't what I meant", and then you can continue and ask what they meant. Or they say "Yes that is really not an idea I support" and then you can keep going - express your need "It is important to me to understand your perspective on this, can you explain?". See where it goes!

Firstly I would take the time to understand your boss’s concerns and reservations regarding your ideas and initiatives. Put yourself in your boss’s shoes to comprehend their priorities, pressures, and reasons for resistance. Ask questions seek clarification on why your boss might be hesitant to support your ideas, and try to address any underlying issues.

Facing a boss who isn't sold on your ideas? Here's the secret: understand their perspective! Get curious, ask questions, and tailor your approach to address their concerns. Together, you can refine your ideas for success!

I would recommend reading the book How to win friends and influence people. There are some really valuable insights about how to pursue people. I strongly believe sometimes is about the energy you bring into the meeting and not being afraid to be challenged.

Prepare thoroughly anticipate any objections and gather evidence to support the potential benefits of your ideas. Communicate effectively your proposal in a concise and compelling manner, highlighting its alignment with organisational goals and addressing any potential risks. Start to provide solutions to any concerns raised by your boss, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to collaborate on refining your ideas.

Get some input, open dialogue by seeking feedback from your boss on how your ideas could be improved. Work together with your boss to find common ground and develop a mutually beneficial approach that addresses both your objectives and their concerns. Don’t be discouraged by initial resistance; continue to engage with your boss constructively and demonstrate the value of your ideas through tangible results.

Try and understand your boss’s perspective. It’s quite often your boss is encouraging you to think out of the box in more advanced way than you think you are capable because they realise your true potential. If this is the case, improvise your case and learn the terms that click with your boss. One best way is to seek feedback often and even adhoc. Have an honest conversation about how you feel and how could you improve. Transparency and communication are the key to healthy relationships at work. Build the rapport and trust. Embrace their feedback and grow.

I would say one important thing here is to avoid making assumptions. That you boss hates you and wants you to fail for example. Of course, it can happen...but most of the time it is just a difference in perspective or understanding of the bigger business picture that s at play.

To address resistance from your boss: Understand their viewpoint. Build trust and rapport. Present data and benefits. Frame ideas strategically. Seek allies for support. Be flexible and open to feedback. Explore alternatives if needed. Know when to pivot efforts.

Understand the why. Is this the first time? Figure out if it only happens with you? Self reflect if your ideas are not making the cut or a priority for your boss currently. If this is recurring and there is something more than meets the eye: Move

You're probably facing a trust deficit, or it's an alignment problem. On the trust side, you could create a healthy emotional bank account - things like acknowledging, having someones back an so on. Secondly, try harder to understand what his wins are. To do that you must listen to understand, not to respond. Validate your understanding explicitly. Thirdly, once trust begins to grow, seek permission to discuss your idea. Place the idea, ie, let him know why it is relevant to both of you. Share your idea, and ask for his opinion. At any stage, if there is resistance, stop and ask if he's willing to discuss it. Move forward only if he is willing. On alignment it's a simpler discussion. Review and align your goals, then do the above.