JOURNAL ARTICLE

A Smarter Way to Disagree.

  • Published In: Harvard Business Review, 2025, v. 103, n. 6. P. 108 1 of 3

  • Database: Business Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Minson, Julia A.; Collins, Hanne K.; Yeomans, Michael 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on how organizations can foster constructive disagreement by emphasizing observable linguistic behaviors rather than internal mental states like empathy or compassion. Research shows that since thoughts and feelings are unobservable, effective conflict management depends on training individuals to carefully choose their words to express curiosity, acknowledge opposing views, find common ground, hedge claims, and share personal stories. Organizations can support this by providing verbal skills training, modeling appropriate behaviors, using technology to monitor and give feedback on language during disagreements, and considering constructive disagreement skills in hiring and promotion. This behavior-focused approach aims to close the gaps between intention and behavior and between behavior and perception, thereby improving communication and decision-making in conflicts.

Additional Information

  • Source:Harvard Business Review. 2025/11, Vol. 103, Issue 6, p108
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Communication and Mass Media
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0017-8012
  • Accession Number:188661126
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