Friday, July 09, 2010
Getting Your Ideas Heard
Depending on how large your team is, it might take some time for you to find your “voice” and get heard by other team members. It may seem even more daunting if you are new to the team.
When you were recruited – either to the company or a particular department team – you were probably told, “We want you to bring fresh ideas to the group.” In theory, it sounds good. In reality, “bring fresh ideas” is code for CHANGE.
Not many folks like change; especially when it comes from someone unknown. Some peers may have heard of your reputation and results but, most likely, none worked with you directly to vouch for your credibility.
What ends up happening is:
1. You are frustrated because team members don’t see your value.
2. They are frustrated because you don’t have their historical perspective.
How to Get Heard
If you are a new team member:
• seek background information on the issue before speaking.
• be willing to take on the challenge in spite of naysayers.
• question policies, procedures, service levels, etc because long-term team members may have become complacent over time.
If you are a senior team member:
• be open to listening to new ideas from outside your department or organization.
• focus on team goals rather than defending your own position or biases.
• make a sincere connection with the new person to get to know them.
In Everyone Communicates, Few Connect, John Maxwell writes:
“Connecting is the ability to identify with people and relate to them in a way that increases your influence with them.”
Where does change begin? With people. The key to making changes by getting heard is to find common ground. And, that happens when all team members strive to make genuine connections.
You can make a difference for the people on your team. When you connect with them, the team accomplishes great things.
Until next time...Lead like you mean it!
Marjorie