Are you a newbie at work? Here’s how to tactfully voice your opinion
A fresher might be considered rude if they put forth their opinion without reading the room. Sometimes, even those with the best of ideas might fail in conveying them properly. That can also lead to trouble. So, what is the best possible way for a newbie to put forward their opinion in the workplace? Here are a few tips that might come in handy:
Assess the environment around you: Every place of work has its own culture and style of communication. At some workplaces, it’s okay for juniors to directly approach senior-level management to engage in discussions, whereas others follow a well-structured hierarchy. So, observe the dynamics, pay a closer look at how people at your workplace communicate, and take a call accordingly. For instance, if you see that team members communicate their ideas to the team lead who decides whether to take it forward to the senior leaders or not, that’s your cue to not barge into the office of the department head with a list of your ideas. Stick to the line of communication.
Choose the right time and place, timing is key: Depending on when you approach your peers or managers for a discussion directly influences the way your opinions will be received. Periods of deadlines or meetings meant for critical decisions might not be the best moments to seek everyone’s attention toward your ideas. Wait for everyone to be in a relaxed mood or do not have a lot of work on their plate. This is necessary so that they have enough time to hear you out and consider your ideas. For instance, if your
