How not to let your colleague deflect issues.

Have you been in situations where you had requested something from a colleague or a customer and they deflected the issue?

Do you find it difficult to assert yourself?

In these situations, you can use an assertiveness technique, known as Broken Record Technique.

The Broken Record Technique is an assertive communication strategy used to convey a message and maintain focus during conversations.

It involves calmly and persistently repeating your point or request, regardless of objections or distractions, until the request or point is acknowledged or addressed.

Let me give you two examples and then explain the technique’s structure in detail.

Example 1: Project Scope Expansion

Situation: Your client requests additional features and scope changes for a project without considering the impact on timelines and resources.

You: "I understand your desire to include additional features in the project. However, implementing these changes will require extra time and resources, which may delay the project delivery."

Client: "We really need these changes. Can't you find a way to accommodate them within the existing timeline?"

You (using Broken Record Technique): "I appreciate your request and I understand the need for these changes. However, incorporating them within the current timeline would compromise the quality and overall success of the project."

Example 2: Addressing a colleague who constantly interrupts

Situation: A colleague consistently interrupts and dominates conversations during team meetings, derailing discussions.

You (following an interruption): "I appreciate your input, but I would like to finish presenting my ideas without interruption."

Colleague: "I have some important points to share, so let me interject here."

You (using Broken Record Technique): "I understand your perspective, but I would appreciate it if we could allow each person to present their ideas without interruptions. Let's create space for everyone's input and have a productive discussion."

In each example, the Broken Record Technique is applied by calmly and persistently reiterating the main point or request, despite objections or attempts to divert the conversation.

Individuals can assert themselves and navigate the situation effectively by maintaining focus and repeating the message respectfully.

Remember, adapting the technique to specific circumstances and using appropriate language and tone is crucial for successful implementation.

Here is the structure to the technique:

1.?Clarity and Conciseness: Before implementing the Broken Record Technique, it is crucial to define your message or request clearly. Be concise and specific when stating your point to avoid confusion or misunderstanding.

2.?Calm and Composed Demeanour: Maintain a calm and composed demeanour throughout the conversation. Keep your emotions in check, as remaining level-headed enhances your credibility and helps you maintain control of the situation.

3.?Clear and Assertive Statement: State your message assertively and confidently, using clear and concise language. Avoid becoming defensive or confrontational, and instead, focus on being firm and respectful.

4.?Repeat with Persistence: If the other person attempts to divert the conversation or raises objections, calmly restate your message using the same or similar wording. Repeat your statement consistently, without getting derailed by distractions or attempts to change the subject.

5.?Active Listening: While employing the Broken Record Technique, it is essential to actively listen to the other person's response or objections. Acknowledge their perspective, but reiterate your point without deviating from your main message.

6.?Addressing Objections: If the other person raises objections or concerns, acknowledge their points and then restate your message. You can address their objections separately, but remember to maintain your main message as the primary focus.

7.?Persistence and Resolution: Continue repeating your message calmly and persistently until it is acknowledged, addressed, or resolved. Be prepared for potential resistance or negotiation tactics, and remain patient while asserting yourself.

Hope you like this approach, especially if you are an Introvert.

Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Would you like to get coached on the topic of assertiveness? Please reach out to Coach, Johncey George at [email protected]

Johncey George is an ICF PCC Leadership Coach. He does 1:1 Executive Coaching and Leadership Coaching for Introverts. Johncey has completed over 1000+ hours of professional coaching. The website is https://www.coachjohncey.com