Dare to Speak, Dare to Lead: The Importance of Expressing Dissent in the Workplace
In India, the culture of respect for authority and hierarchy often results in employees being hesitant to speak their minds and disagree with their superiors. But in today's fast-paced business world, the ability to present thoughts and defend ideas is a crucial professional skill.
Expressing dissent has its advantages. It encourages open discussions and debates, leading to a healthy exchange of ideas and better decision-making. It also helps establish credibility and trust among colleagues. For instance, at Tata Consultancy Services, the IT giant based in India, employees are encouraged to challenge the status quo and present their ideas, leading to a culture of innovation and creativity.
However, disagreeing with superiors can also have its drawbacks. It can lead to conflict and hurt relationships, especially if done in a disrespectful manner. Employees may also fear retaliation or being perceived as insubordinate, which can negatively impact their careers.
So, how can employees handle this skillfully? Here are some recommendations:
Choose your battles wisely - Prioritize the issues that matter most and focus on those.
Choose the right time and place - Ensure that you discuss the issue in private. Divergent views , when aired in group setting may not yield favorable outcome.
Present your thoughts respectfully - Use a professional and respectful tone when presenting your ideas, and focus on the facts and data that support your argument.
Listen to others - Take the time to listen to others and understand their perspective. By doing so, you can address any concerns and find common ground.
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Be open to feedback - Be willing to receive feedback and make changes, showing that you're open to new ideas and willing to work together to find the best solution.
Expressing dissent is a crucial professional skill that can drive positive change in the workplace. By approaching disagreements with respect and openness, employees can build strong relationships, foster innovation, and lead the way to progress.
"A voice unspoken is a thought unheard, a mind untapped. Speak up, and unleash your potential!"
If this resonates with you and you wish your teams to follow the idea, share it with them
here is a link to a HBR article on similar topic
Heading Talent Acquisition
1 年A good read sir thanks for sharing
C - Suite Leadership Consultant- Help Leaders Raise , Effectiveness & Employability
1 年I believe this understanding has to increase in parents, teachers and professors also , so that power of expression is fully leveraged for wholesome good ??
C - Suite Leadership Consultant- Help Leaders Raise , Effectiveness & Employability
1 年Very well articulated, Manoj. Additionally I believe it will be relevant to know what Amy Edmondson has to say - Silence is Free but as leader one has to remind oneself that - Silence is unethical. So be socially aware and choose wisely!
Chief Mentor & CEO at Global Talent Company Limited
1 年Manoj GARG This seems to be past. Today it is different. Culturally things have changed a lot last over a decade. This is truly good subject to debate n bring forward what has changed n why?? Best wishes n Cheers DK
Don't solve EVOLVE. building Tata 1mg offline business.
1 年I see a contradiction in this whole compost.