Using constructive disagreement. There is nothing wrong with disagreement. No two people are completely similar, therefore it’s inevitable that they would disagree on at least one issue. There’s also nothing wrong in having a position and defending it. To make the most of a disagreement, you have to keep it constructive. The following are some of the elements of a constructive disagreement. Solution focus: the disagreement aims to find a workable compromise at the end of the discussion. Mutual respect: even if the two parties do not agree with one another, courtesy is always a priority. Win-win solution: constructive disagreement is not geared towards getting the one up on the other person. The premium is always on finding a solution that has benefits for both parties. Reasonable concessions: more often than not, a win-win solution means you won’t get your way completely. Some degree of sacrifice is necessary to meet the other person halfway. In constructive disagreement, parties are open to making reasonable concessions for the negotiation to move forward. Learning focus: parties in constructive disagreement see conflict as opportunities to get feedback on how well a system works so that necessary changes can be made. They also see it as a challenge to be flexible and creative in coming up with solutions for everyone’s gain.
