Do say: “A few of the other people in my department have also expressed concerns about. . . ” Don’t say: “Everyone else in my department thinks your idea will be a disaster, and they would rather. . . ”
Come prepared with charts and graphs if they’re a numbers person. Anticipate your boss’s objections to your argument, and try to have a relatable anecdote up your sleeve for each objection if they’re more persuaded by personal stories than numbers.
Ask trusted colleagues who are more familiar with your boss if they have any insight. Also remember that your boss is likely in a position of power because they have experience or expertise.
Do say: “I really like what you said about . . . and I think that we could make that idea even better if we. . . ” Don’t say: “The only thing I agree with you on is. . . ”
Do say: “I think that we could provide better customer service to our clients by. . . ” Don’t say, “I could get out of here a lot sooner every day if. . . ”
Avoid a confrontational tone. At the same time, don’t hedge a lot or apologize too much. Your boss won’t take you seriously.
