You may expect your manager to agree with you when you present a request, but this is not always the case. The good news is that the problem may not bewhat you asked for, but how you asked for it (or how you positioned it). We have put together a list of tips you need to remember to increase your chances of getting your manager to agree with you.
6 Tips For Convincing Your Manager To Agree With You
- Think Like A Business Owner Or Your Manager -Think about how your request will benefit your manager or the business as a whole. Once you have figured this out, present these advantages to your manager. Your manager is more likely to agree with you if he or she is to benefit directly, or if the company will benefit from your idea. If your idea comes across as solely benefiting you, your odds of getting it approved decrease dramatically.
2. Do Your Research - Figure out exactly what you want before you start the conversation. If you want more supplies, do not ask to review the departmental budget. Yes, they are related, but get directly to the point. Remember to position things as a revenue generator or a cost-savings to get your manager's attention.
3. Asking The Wrong Questions Can Stop You Cold - Never ask a question that your manager can answer with a "no." Rather than asking questions that can be answered with "yes" or "no," ask your manager what he or she thinks of an idea that you have. This way you can have a discussion about your idea rather than triggering a risk-adverse manager to say "no" which would effectively end the conversation.
4. Do Not Be Shy When Asking Questions - You may consider asking your question in a way that presumes your manager has already agreed. With this approach, your manager may be more inclined to bargain with you rather than denying your request outright. For example, instead of, "Can you increase my budget for IT support?" ask the manager "How much will you be able to increase my budget for IT support so we can meet our customers needs 50% - 66% faster?"
5. Be Prepared For Your Manager To Disagree - Since you already know that your manager may say "no" to your request, be prepared for objections. Plan what you might say to any objections your manager may raise. Be prepared to counter them with solid reasons, facts and advantages to the company.
6. Moving On - Even if your request is well planned and presented, your manager may still say "no." Your manager has reasons for denying your request and as the employee, it is your place to accept that. You should thank your manager for listening to you and drop the subject. Reacting to a denied request in a mature way is the best way to ensure that your manager will take you seriously next time you have a request.
Summary: There is nothing wrong with challenging your manager on something; however, do it in a diplomatic way. There is nothing worse than arguing like a teenager with your manager or overreacting to a denied request in an immature way. Be smart when challenging your manager, especially if what you are saying is subjective. And always arm your case with facts.
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