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In today’s world, taking the right approach in important situations can mean everything. Whether negotiating a deal, assigning a task to a co-worker, calming down an intense situation, or even disciplining a child, the right approach is vitally important in all we do. The approach we take or how we handle potentially volatile, difficult, or stressful situation will define us as a person and as leaders.
How many times in your life have you been asked to do something only to be left feeling resentful, unmotivated, and bitter? Taking the wrong approach is common practice and often leads to unnecessary stress and contention at work or in the home. For this reason, striving to take the right approach in every situation is worth our time and effort. And at the end of the day, our approach is key to our success in nearly every circumstance we face.
So what exactly is the right approach? I think it may be different in every circumstance but here are some general rules that work.
#1 Be Collaborative
The right approach involves seeking feedback and ideas from others. Being a “know-it-all” or pretending to have all of the right answers turns people off. When we seek the input, ideas, and opinions of others, we build them up and add value to the problem we are solving. People will become willing to be a part of the solution when they know they have been heard and when they’ve been able to take part in the process.
#2 Be Respectful
The right approach never involves belittling or ridiculing another person. Though we may strongly disagree with the opinions or actions of others, keeping the focus on the issue and not on the person themselves is important. We should also resist the urge to accuse or blame others. Keep in mind that we can find ways to stay true to our convictions and talk openly and candidly about our opinions and views without attacking others. Learn to be firm on the issue at hand but soft on the person. The moment we move away from attacking an issue by putting someone down is the moment we lose our ability to influence others.
#3 Be Open
The right approach involves being open. Most people today expect to know why they are doing what they are being asked to do, so tell them. Explain to them why what you are asking them to do, or the stance you are taking is so important and how it benefits others. Expecting people to do what you ask just because you asked or jumping on board with your idea just because you asked them to without letting them see clearly why it is a good idea rarely works. Thus take the time to explain the purpose and reason.
#4 Be Transparent
The right approach involves telling people both the positive and potentially negative consequences of following through and doing a good job. Do not hide things or tell half-truths just to get your way because we’ve seen time and time again how eventually it will come back to bite you. Being honest with people will earn the trust you need as a leader.
#5 Be in Control
The right approach means we stay in control. Keeping our emotions in check is difficult and takes practice however when we remain calm and composed toward others, our ability to take the right approach in any situation is greatly improved. When necessary, don’t hesitate to take a few minutes when confronted with a difficult situation in order to allow yourself to stop and think things through before reacting. Once we lose control, our ability to influence others and repair the damage we caused nosedives rapidly.
Taking the right approach is not easy and takes discipline and practice. When we consistently take the right approach in difficult situations people will begin to want to do what we say. Taking the right approach will greatly enhance your ability to influence others and lead, and it will make you a better person. With the right approach we can arrive at the best possible outcome in any given situation. Strive today to take the right approach in all of your interactions!
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