Have you ever found yourself in a situation where someone shares an opinion, and you know they’re wrong – but you’re not sure how to say it without damaging your relationship?
It’s tricky, right? The good news is that it’s possible to correct someone without making them (or you) feel awkward.
It starts by deciding whether it’s essential to be “right” at that exact moment. Sometimes, letting go of your need to correct them can be the healthiest choice -especially if the topic is small or the timing isn’t right.
So……how do you handle things when you have decided to speak up>
Approach it gently.
Ask how they arrived at their conclusion by showing genuine curiosity and respect. You might say something like, “That’s interesting; how did you come across that information?”
By listening to their reasoning, you’re acknowledging their perspective before offering your own. It’s here that you might then suggest alternative possibilities: “I’ve read something different – would you like to hear about it?” Taking this approach keeps the conversation open and two-way – rather than feeling like one person correcting the other.
Your body language and your tone of voice is everything here. A friendly, calm voice and a smile or nod shows you are genuinely interested and goes a long way in preventing the conversation from turning into a confrontation. I often say to my coaching clients “Are you planning for a conversation or a confrontation” Bring the best tone of voice and body language with you to achieve your outcome.
And if it’s clear the other person is getting uncomfortable or defensive about their point of view – it might be best to pivot. A simple, “I hadn’t heard that perspective before” acknowledges them, and you can move on gracefully if there’s no need to push further. The goal is a win-win, where both parties walk away without resentment or embarrassment.
Curious about more ways to navigate delicate conversations and maintain positive relationships? Feel free to connect with me to explore how we can elevate your leadership and communication skills together.