What do you do if your boss in a startup disagrees with your ideas?

It is very easy to miss the point and start a never ending qui pro quo. - Always assume positive intent - Ask clarifying questions - Rebound on answers -> Why, why, why The more they talk about the less ambiguity you'll have and you will collect elements to build your answers.

Your boss likely has insights into the company's strategy, finances, and long-term goals that may not be immediately apparent to you. By asking questions and seeking to understand their decision-making process, you can gain valuable insights into the broader context that informs their perspective. This doesn't necessarily mean that you have to agree with your boss's stance, but understanding their perspective can help you tailor your arguments and find common ground or compromise. It also demonstrates your willingness to engage in constructive dialogue, which is highly valued in startup culture.

Deming use to say "In God we trust, others bring data" It's very important to position yourself from your data perspective and not your ego. Keep the conversation as objective as possible, Try to talk with a "We" and not a "I"

If your boss in a startup disagrees with your ideas, it's essential to handle the situation tactfully. Begin by understanding the context behind their perspective, considering their insights into the company's strategy and goals. Present evidence supporting your ideas, backed by data or case studies to demonstrate their potential impact. Offer alternatives to your boss, showcasing your flexibility and problem-solving skills. Seek feedback to understand their concerns and adapt your approach accordingly. Building positive relationships and reflecting on the experience will contribute to personal and professional growth.

It's all about "converge" instead of "diverge" Analyse you boss requirements and ask yourself: How can we converge ? How I can adjust my idea to converge?

If your boss doesn't agree with your original idea, don't give up. Instead, propose variations or alternative approaches that may better align with their vision or the company's current needs. This shows your flexibility and willingness to adapt, which are valuable traits in a dynamic startup environment. By presenting alternatives, you not only showcase your problem-solving skills but also keep the dialogue open. This ongoing conversation could lead to a successful compromise or even a better solution that addresses everyone's concerns and objectives.

Do to others what you want others to do for you. You are all in the same ship, and if it sinks you all sinks. So you might as well be a solid team. There will be tides and strong relationship can help you pass the storm

Know When to Let Go: Recognize when it's time to let go of a particular idea if it's clear that your boss is not supportive and further discussion is unproductive. Instead, focus your energy on exploring new opportunities and generating fresh ideas that may better resonate with your boss.

A transparent and flat culture is crucial in startups – this means your boss should listen to your ideas, even when they disagree. If they do, start by scheduling a meeting to fully understand why they object. Can you address those concerns by modifying your idea? Can you present additional data to support your case? Focus on finding solutions and demonstrating a collaborative mindset. Remember, in a startup, everyone's goal is success, and working through disagreements constructively makes the team (and your ideas) stronger.

You should understand that your boss’s concerns are different from yours. They are seeing different problems, different opportunities, different strengths, different weaknesses, and different issues. As long as you present your opinions and understand that you’ve been heard, then you have done your part.

Na vis?o de gerenciamento de produtos, temos o alinhamento de expectativas como a espinha dorsal dentro do processo de discovery. Ao mediar interesses das áreas de business e do time de tecnologia, há uma necessidade da propositura do diálogo ativo, gera??o de fundamenta??o/evidências e aplica??o de técnicas de influência positiva. Uma ferramenta valiosa para o respectivo processo é o mapa de stakeholders, a fim de termos consciência da matriz interesse x influência ao lidar com diversos públicos dentro de uma startup.

Engage in Open Dialogue: Foster an open and respectful dialogue with your boss, encouraging them to share their thoughts, feedback, and suggestions for improvement. Be receptive to their input and willing to consider alternative perspectives, even if they differ from your own.