MIT Sloan: The Delicate Dynamics of Challenging A Superior

Featured article for this week's Brief

Read time: 2 min

Big Idea

Challenging superiors requires understanding power dynamics, choosing the right timing, prioritizing private discussions, using "I" statements, being open to feedback, aligning with supportive peers, keeping the organization's goals in focus, preparing for varied outcomes, and viewing the process as an opportunity for growth.

Top Thoughts

• Ensure you understand what the power dynamics with your superior are and employ diplomacy and mutual respect.

• Address concerns at the right time in a private setting with an atmosphere promoting honest, open dialogue and avoid high-pressure situations or public forums.

• Use effective communication techniques to frame your concerns collaboratively instead of focusing on personal biases.

• Align the feedback you provide with organizational goals and connect feedback and suggestions to the organization’s mission and values. Emphasize your commitment to achieving collective success and how addressing your issues will further these goals.

Quick Quotes

• "The act of challenging a superior necessitates more than just raising one’s voice; it involves understanding, navigating, and engaging in the subtle yet complex dance of power dynamics, diplomacy, and mutual respect."

• "Approaching someone above you in the professional hierarchy requires a delicate balance and a deep understanding of both the person and the situation."

• "Every time a potential disagreement arises, consider: Is this issue so significant that it warrants a confrontation?"

• "In the world of professional communication, timing can be everything."

• "It’s wise to avoid confronting superiors during high-pressure situations or public forums because it can be misconstrued as an attempt at disruption or showmanship… The environment in which you choose to voice your concerns plays a pivotal role in how those concerns are received."

• "Instead of adopting a potentially confrontational tone, use “I” statements to express observations, feelings, and suggestions."

• "The journey of challenging a superior or expressing concerns is inherently bilateral. It’s not just an avenue for you to voice your thoughts but also an opportunity to understand the other person’s perspective."

• "Align with like-minded peers, but tactfully. While individual concerns have their merit, there’s undeniable strength in numbers… However, it’s imperative that this alignment is not perceived as cliquey or divisive. The primary focus should always remain on the collective benefit of the organization rather than on forming factions within the team."

• "Encouraging open dialogue and a culture of feedback is the bedrock of innovative and forward-thinking organizations."

Actionable Advice

1. Choose your battles - Before raising a concern and causing confrontation, first determine whether the issue is significant and relevant enough to team dynamics, company culture, or business objectives to warrant the trouble.

2. Use “I” statements - Frame concerns using “I” statements, such as "I feel that this particular aspect could benefit from further attention," to keep the focus on the issue and avoid being confrontational.

3. Embrace feedback - Being open to feedback, even if it goes against your own opinion, promotes mutual respect and fosters a culture of continuous learning.

Source(s)

Laker, B. (2023, Oct 12). The Delicate Dynamics of Challenging A Superior. [Web Article]. MIT Sloan Management Review. (Link)