How to Win Every Argument
Many times our initial reaction to potential conflicts is defensiveness and tension.
We ready ourselves for a stressful situation both mentally and physically, and we don't
hide it. This is the beginning of a lose-lose situation. It doesn't take much effort
to transform conflicts into win-win.
The Key
If a conflict arises between you and a customer or employee, it is progress in the making.
You have the opportunity to take a bad situation and fix it; to make an unhappy person
happy. The flip side of this is to have someone upset and keep it inside, never letting on
that something is bothering them.
With that frame of mind, that the conflict is an opportunity to solve a problem and make
things better, your reaction will become a planned response. Your arms uncross, you lean
in to the conversation, and you are ready and willing to discuss the matter.
Stop Potential Arguments
When someone approaches you with a problem, don't jump into the negative mix and defend
yourself. This will only serve to agitate the situation, and both participants will be
defensive and angry. Begin the conversation with a positive attitude, eager to find the solution.
It's all about your frame of mind. How you see things before they start will dictate
how you proceed. In the past, you may have gone on the defensive and argued for your
position. Now you know this isn't always the best way to act. Begin with the attitude of
opportunity, and you will both be pleased with the outcome.
If you have the choice, why not choose the smarter option? |
