Conflict and tension aren’t necessarily bad for your personal and professional relationships. They can actually help foster stronger connections and get others to truly listen to you.
Picture: Cristian V
Inc writes that instead of always agreeing with someone, voice disagreement to make a dull conversation more lively and also form a stronger connection to the other person. A little conflict or tension puts the other person on alert and could make them take notice of you more:
For one, voicing a disagreement with a person’s opinion actually forges some common ground. Rather than drone endlessly on about the weather or kids, two people can find something to take a stand on. Now, this doesn’t mean you ought to start railing against each other’s views on gay marriage, but a dissent here or there around a topic is a welcome relief. Just make sure you deliver it with a smile.
Second, most established and powerful people are rarely challenged. They’re often surrounded by “yes people” who are afraid to disagree for fear or losing their jobs or being kicked out of the inner circle. So when they meet someone who knows how to speak honestly and voice an opinion that’s different from theirs or others while still possessing a certain modicum of respect, then that is again, a welcome relief and refreshing.
This isn’t to say you should start arguing with everyone you meet, especially if you don’t really disagree or care about the topic. However, a little conflict might be welcome in a conversation.
The Secret (and Oh So Simple) Way to Get People to Pay Attention to You [Inc]
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