Do you have this problem? You come up with great ideas or concepts to make work better but... it simply meets with resistance.
Dale Emery says that not only can resistance be overcome, but that it can even become a resource!
Generally speaking, there are four factors that affect how people respond to our ideas and requests:
- Expectations
- Communication
- Relationship
- Environmental Influences
More specifically:
Expectations
People ask themselves three questions:
- Will I be able to do this? (Expectations about ability)
- What will the results be? (Expectations about results)
- Do I want these results? (Expectations about value)
Communication
More often than not, people have not understood what we have said about our idea, and we have not understood their response. Emery suggests the application of "Miller's Law" which states
To understand what another person is saying, you have to assume it is true and try to imagine what it might be true of"
In other words, you need to ask yourself some questions to find out what the likely unstated, but implied meanings of the statement are.
Relationship
Don't forget that your relationship with the other person enters the conversation before your words do!
Hint - A good way to improve any relationship is to apply Miller's Law when you're listening. Make sure you understand their point of view before jumping to conclusions. [Note to self: Imprint this on your brain Paul]
Environment
Sometimes people's environment (their Manager or the procedures) really won't let your ideas fly.
This becomes an opportunity to invite more people into the conversation and also to change environments that impede creative solutions.
And remember...
If you're not coming up against resistance, then you're either dead or simply not coming up with any creative ideas. Don't avoid resistance, embrace it and use it as a resource.
Hat tip, Blaine Collins