It’s hard to tell someone they’re wrong. You don’t want to come across as arrogant or a know-it-all. The person may believe they are right about something that’s objectively wrong. Correcting them could potentially upset them. It’s important to approach an uncomfortable conversation with respect.
Here are some tips to correct someone in a constructive, empathetic way:
- Make sure you are 100% right. If you are, think about whether correcting the other person involves a critical issue or something minor and unimportant. If the incorrect information will have a negative impact on the person or others, it’s time to talk.
- Choose a time to have a private, one-on-one conversation. It’s inappropriate and embarrassing to call out someone in a group setting.
- Ask questions to find out why the person believes the incorrect information. Be an active listener, respectful and focus on the issue. Maintain a calm demeanor throughout the conversation. It’s possible there was a misunderstanding. Even if they are still factually wrong, it helps to hear their perspective on how they had reached their incorrect conclusion.
- Provide evidence as back up for your point of view. You want to support your reasoning with facts and evidence, not just your opinion. This can help the person better understand the situation.
- Look for common ground and shared goals. It’s beneficial to find areas of agreement that help everyone.
Correcting someone is not easy. The goal is not about proving someone wrong. Dealing with a difficult conversation by being respectful, kind, and understanding will lead to having healthy, professional communication.
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