To politely regain control over a conversation, signal that while you value someone’s input, you’re not currently looking for other ideas. Try phrases like this:
Even if you don't agree with the advice, it's important to acknowledge the person's attempt to help. Say, "Thanks for your input, I appreciate you looking out for me." If you're comfortable, briefly explain your thought process or the plan you're already working on. This helps the person understand your perspective. Politely defer the advice and redirect the conversation back to your current task. Ex: "That's an interesting idea, but I'm already moving forward with ... . Perhaps we can discuss this further another time?" If the unsolicited advice is persistent or comes across as patronizing, you may need to be more assertive. Say, "I appreciate your suggestions, but I'm confident in my approach for this particular task." Consider the situation and the person giving the advice. If it's a casual conversation with a colleague, a lighthearted response might be appropriate. If it's your superior or a sensitive topic, a more professional approach is necessary. Phrasing your response with "I" statements can be helpful. Ex: "I've already considered that approach, but..." This focuses on your own thinking and avoids putting the other person on the defensive. Even if you disagree, always be respectful and professional in your tone.
Abhijit Das
2w
Unsolicited advice can be effectively managed with the 𝘼𝘾𝙀 𝙛𝙧𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙠: *𝐀𝐜𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰𝐥𝐞𝐝𝐠𝐞 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁: Recognize the advisor’s good intentions. *𝗖𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: Frame your ideas as firm decisions. *𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗕𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Set respectful boundaries while maintaining
Jing Xu, PhD
2w
😂🤣 HBR is really a mind reader for corporate dynamics.
Thank you for posting! Its important to remember that all advice is not good advice. Typically people should not be adding perspective to your goals and functions whom have not yet been trained to perform or have experienced them.
This is yet another feature of work culture I really have not missed losing countless hours of precious time to, working from home. It has been pure heaven.
REMIS S
2w
I feel the real problem is how to understand people who will give useful advice versus freeloaders and gossip mongers. The difference is often very subtle. Most of the time the best advice I got was unsolicited.
best thing I've read on Linkedin today
leena wick
2w
Hey
Mental Health Advisor, Coach, Consultant, Counsellor, Expert, Guide, Speaker, Talk Therapist, a Problem Identifier-Solver: Individuals | Employees' Well-being Specialist: International Small-Medium-Large Corporates.
2w"Thanks for your input." This acknowledges their suggestion without committing to anything. "I appreciate your concern, but I've already got a plan in mind." This shows respect while politely declining. "That's a different way to look at things, but I'm comfortable with how I'm doing [task]." This acknowledges their idea while setting a boundary. "I understand that worked for you in the past, but in this situation, I think [your approach] might be better." This explains your reasoning. "Thanks for the advice, but I'll come to you if I need any further insights." This politely discourages future unsolicited advice. "I respect your opinion, however, I already have a plan to [approach]." This firmly sets a boundary while staying respectful. Stay calm and professional, avoid getting defensive or sarcastic. Body language matters, maintain eye contact and a neutral posture. Gauge the situation, is this a colleague or a superior? Adjust your approach accordingly. Is their advice relevant or helpful? If so, maybe consider it. If appropriate, thank them later for their suggestion and explain how you decided to proceed.