Acknowledging Resisters' Viewpoints

When possible, show how you've incorporated resisters' ideas, interests, values, and concerns into your solution.

If you suspect ahead of time that you'll encounter resistance from listeners., prepare a two-sided argument: theirs and yours.  During your presentation, acknowledge your resisters' arguments first.  You'll disarm these individuals by removing the opportunity for them to oppose you. Deprived of this opportunity, they'll be more open to discuss and may want to participate in solving the problem at hand.

Next, present your argument, clearly showing how it provides a more powerful solution than your opponents' argument does.  When possible, show how you've incorporated resisters' ideas, interests, values, and concerns into your solution.

ACTION POINT: Understand where resistance may come from and prepare for it.