How To Win Respect For Your Ideas

1. Try to see things from the other person's point of view.

Your colleagues may be comparing your ideas to theirs. Try to see your proposal from their perspectives. Imagine the questions that your co-workers may have, and how you would answer them.

2. Be sympathetic with the other person's ideas and desires.

Understand that your colleagues can be just as enthusiastic regarding their work as much as yourself. Being receptive to their opinions can bring on a new perspective you haven't considered, and will assist your colleagues in keeping an open mind to your ideas once they realize you are sincerely interested in theirs. Perhaps you can even incorporate each other's suggestions into your project.

3. Show respect for the other person's opinion.

Never say, "You're wrong." Your colleagues have their own views and ideas and want to be heard as much as you do. While their views may differ from your own, that doesn't necessarily make them incorrect or useless. Negative comments will create defensive walls, create arguments, and essentially cause others to tune out. Be attentive to what your colleagues are saying, and sincerely consider their proposals.

4. Dramatize your ideas.

Be enthusiastic about the work you've done and back up your work with facts and examples. Your colleagues will appreciate your well-thought plan and your enthusiasm, and give it the credibility it deserves.

By incorporating these techniques in your next meeting, you will begin to gain respect from your colleagues for your suggestions and learn to become a better listener as well.

Contributed by Dale Carnegie Training.