The best way to win an argument

 

The best way to win an argument is to not have to start one.

Conflicts are hard to avoid. Not starting an argument doesn't mean pretending there is no conflict, which would be worse. However conflicts do no have to always end up in arguments. The moment an argument becomes the mode in defining a conflict, the two parties are already sitting at opposite ends of the table. It becomes difficult to let go of your positions to find a common ground. Frame the conflict as a shared problem, and you will be collaborating to solve a problem, not fighting to change someone's mind to what you want. One module in my training programme for leaders is conflict management. This is a critical module and moreso for senior leaders because as we rise in rank, we also bloat our egos. We actually get worse at handling conflicts. Comment yes below if you've observed such behaviour in senior leaders.