How to Disagree Politely

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disagree politely

Throughout our lives we came in contact with different people and there are moments that we agree or disagree with their point of views. Disagreeing doesn't make you a bad person. Being polite in discussions with another person who doesn't share your perspective takes skill and practice. The following are some suggestions how to disagree politely:

Things You'll Need

  • Cool head
  • Conversation skills
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Instructions

    • 1

      Approach any discussion with a cool head. A person who is in control of his thoughts and emotions are less likely to be involved in a fight. The point of any conversation is expressing thoughts and feelings and you want to be an active and responsible participant in it whether you agree with what the speaker is saying or not.

    • 2

      Give the other person the chance to speak up his mind. Listening to what he has to say and hearing him good will let you focus on the conversation. Even if you disagree in the end, you show the other person respect by being attentive when he was speaking.

    • 3

      Speak up your mind as well. When it is your turn to speak, take the time to express your thoughts about the subject discussed. Be objective and stress out your points why you disagree with the other person. Choose your words carefully.

    • 4

      Don't let emotions take control over both sides. Make your discussion as smooth as possible without bad words and name calling. Be courteous and considerate in your manner and encourage the other person to do the same.

    • 5

      Ask to change the subject if the discussion leads to nowhere. There is no use discussing something which makes you both upset. Politely request the other person to find other topics of interest to talk about or if you need to take a break, do so.

    • 6

      Let the other person know your views and sentiments about the entire conversation without criticizing or blaming. Be polite and kind in your speech. Shake hands to show no hard feelings. Most important of all, let the other person understand that the relationship is intact and both of you can still discuss other interesting things even if you have different opinions.

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Comments

View all 6 Comments
  • Robert Jenkins Jan 14, 2009
    Great tips, I agree and think the key point is retaining control of your emotions and thoughts. I've found a great way to diffuse confrontation in a business meeting is to only ask questions, Who? What? When? Where? Why? and How? That gets the meat out on the table in a nice way.
  • Indigoabby Jan 04, 2009
    Great advice. People so often feel attacked when someone disagrees. But we are all different people with different opinions. Thanks for the article.
  • Quickstar Jan 03, 2009
    This is something the whole world should read, it's called peace:)5*
  • Kallicat Jan 03, 2009
    Great tips. One time, my co-worker and I were disagreeing on a subject. When we were finished talking about it, our cube-mate from the other side of the cube came over to congratulate us on having such a professional disagreement.

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