Whether it’s championing the need for custom bus work or blocking a new product, challenging decisions at work are understandably daunting. Still, it’s possible to approach it in a way that elevates you in the workplace.
Here are 3 helpful tips.
Back it Up with Data
Using data adds some serious weight to your argument. It’s like bringing receipts to a debate—it’s hard to argue with cold, hard facts.
So:
- Get your hands on numbers, charts, or reports that back up your point. Whether it’s sales figures, customer feedback, or market research, the more data, the better
- Don’t just throw numbers around—dig deep and figure out what they’re saying. Look for trends or patterns that support your case
- Make your data easy to understand with visuals like graphs or infographics. Nobody wants to wade through a convoluted spreadsheet
Say your boss wants to roll out a new product feature, but you’re not convinced it’s a good idea. You crunch the numbers and find that similar features failed in the past, leading to a drop in customer satisfaction. Armed with this data, you present your case, showing that history could repeat itself if they go ahead with the plan.
Focus on Impact
Sometimes it’s all about the “So what?” factor. By highlighting the real-life consequences of a decision, you’re showing why it matters to everyone involved.
So:
- Think about who’s going to feel the effects of the decision the most. Customers? Employees? Shareholders? Everyone’s got skin in the game
- Consider how the decision could shake things up. Will it boost sales? Tank morale? Piss off customers?
Say management wants to cut costs by outsourcing customer service. You point out that this move could lead to longer wait times, frustrated customers, and a hit to the company’s reputation. Suddenly, saving a few bucks doesn’t sound so great.
Propose Solutions
Complaining is easy, but coming up with solutions? Now that’s where the work is. By offering up alternatives, you’re showing you’re part of the solution, not the problem.
So:
- Put on your thinking cap and brainstorm some other ways to tackle the problem. Get creative!
- Take a hard look at each option and weigh up the good and the bad. It’s all about finding the sweet spot
- Be open to tweaking your plan based on feedback
Say your team’s workflow is a mess, and you’re tired of the chaos caused by the agreed-upon method of doing things. Instead of griping about it, you suggest implementing a project management tool to keep everyone organized. You pitch it as a way to streamline processes and boost productivity. Before you know it, your team’s running like a well-oiled machine.
Challenging decisions at work can certainly be tricky. Still, there are times when it is necessary, so try out these tips.
