Have you ever struggled to get your colleagues on board with your ideas? When facing resistance, it’s crucial to understand what underlying concerns are driving their hesitation. Here are some common reasons you might meet resistance—along with questions to overcome them.
 
When someone resists your idea or isn’t getting it. Don’t get defensive. Instead, ask for their candid reaction to understand what’s informing their position. This could sound as simple as, “How is this idea landing with you?” or “What are some specific risks that worry you?” Once you see what they’re seeing, you can present a more tailored argument—and you might even uncover some gaps in your own thinking.
 
When the conversation becomes adversarial. When your idea is at odds with your collaborator’s, summarize and verify their points. For example: “I hear you saying that you believe X for Y reason. Is that right?” This simple strategy interrupts the point-counterpoint dynamic and makes the tone more collaborative.
 
When their “no” puts you in a bind. Disclose your dilemma, then pose a question that invites them to work with you to solve it. For example, “If we don’t do what I’m suggesting, I worry that we’ll run out of time and resources. How would you approach this?” Questions like these will both encourage the other person to empathize with your situation and potentially lead to better ideas.
This tip is adapted from “How to Get Your Colleagues On Board with Your Idea” by Jeff Wetzler
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