For many people talking to their boss can be incredibly intimidating. Especially when they don’t agree with a decision that their boss has made. So, how do you speak to your boss when you don’t agree with them? These 5 keys can make all the difference when you’re speaking up to your boss.

1. Setting

If you disagree with your boss or you’ve got constructive criticism to offer up, then you need to go and discuss it in private with them. Not supporting your boss publicly is the quickest way to lose private influence with them.

2. Commitment

Few supervisors will entertain criticism or disagreement if they question your loyalty. Remember even scriptures talk about the value of the wounds of a friend. Proven commitment over time can earn you the right to be heard.

3. Attitude

The last thing you want is to come across combative, critical, or un-supportive. The attitude you approach your supervisor with can make all the difference. Always “lead with a yes.” Yes we can do “X” but it is going to take “Y.”

4. Timing

When is the right time to approach your boss? Make sure you take into consideration what’s going on in the organization. Are you winning or losing? What is the stress level of the team? What pressure is the team facing? The right thing, at the wrong time, is always the wrong thing.

5. Relational Equity

Simply put, you can’t spend what you don’t have. Go into the “red” too far and you’ll end up with a debt that you won’t be able to repay. If you haven’t earned the right to say it, then don’t.

What have you seen be successful when speaking up to your boss? Leave a comment!