Disagreeing at work about critical business problems can be constructive if done in a healthy manner. That’s according to McKinsey’s Chris Hartley and coauthors: “Contributory dissent allows individuals and groups to air their differences in a way that moves the discussion toward a positive outcome and doesn’t undermine leadership or group cohesion.”
But how about disagreeing on work assignments and requests, especially when the tasks are nonpromotable—beneficial for the organization but not for personal career advancement? Saying no at work is a practiced skill. Employees can think strategically and negotiate the ask by:
- Dividing the task to tackle the portion best aligned with their skills
- Asking to be relieved of other work to help prioritize responsibilities
- Stating they will do the task this time, but not next year
- Asking to take turns with a colleague for recurring tasks
Learn about contributory dissent, then check out various Author Talks to glean more knowledge about the art of saying no.
Into all problem-solving, a little dissent must fall
The magic of unmuting yourself
How to speak confidently when you’re put on the spot
The formula for successful negotiation
Lisa Sun explains why confidence is your superpower
Charles Duhigg on how the best communicators ‘click’
Vanessa Bohns on our hidden potential to persuade