Would You Rather Be Right or Would You Rather Be Nice?

In every aspect of our lives, relationships are challenging to handle. Professional connections are particularly difficult to navigate. It's not easy to walk the line between nice and right at times. Regardless of your role or rank, you want to maintain professionalism while simultaneously getting your work done and keeping the workplace running smoothly.

There are times when being correct is preferable to being pleasant, and other times when being nice is the best choice.

 

Three times it's preferable to be right than nice. 

1. When you're negotiating for a raise.

Negotiating for a promotion or raise necessitates a proactive approach. This isn't the time to be modest or belittle your achievements; instead, this is the time to celebrate yourself and brag a bit.

That's because you need to show that you're self-assured and won't settle for a job or a wage that doesn't match your abilities.

 

2. When there is something inappropriate or wrong going on at work.

Always speak up if you notice something that isn't right in your employment. Don't be nice if you see harassment, discrimination, bullying, or other wrongdoings; speak it out. The alternative is to allow others to be victimised by those who are not only "not nice" but also engaging in bad behaviour.

Even in smaller-scale instances where you disagree with the way someone is acting or saying things, it's fine and even encouraged to express your point of view and avoid the don't-want-to-rock-the-boat attitude.

 

3. When your reputation or that of your employer is on the line.

It is not the time for niceties if you or your employer is being accused of wrongdoing that you did not commit or are otherwise dealing with reputational damage.

With a firm hand, you must ensure that others are aware of who is in command (you) and that they are aware of the facts. It also applies to situations where you believe people are trying to take advantage of you.

Again, it's about self-assurance and perseverance, as well as leadership. You have no control over how people act, but you do have control over who takes advantage of you in terms of manipulation and vicious gossip.

There are situations where being nice is better than being right, and vice versa.

Two times it's preferable to be nice than right.

1. Dealing with non-work-related conflicts at work.

Personal, political, and other disputes that are unrelated to work have a habit of creeping into the workplace. Before things get out of hand, a manager or leader may be able to put a stop to it.

On the other hand, taking sides is the wrong side to be on if they do find their way into an office atmosphere. This is usually a difficult scenario, and insisting on the "correct" perspective — even if it has nothing to do with your business — will only exacerbate the argument. Instead, try to diffuse and deescalate the situation.

 

2. A coworker or employee expresses regret for a blunder.

We all make errors. Good leaders, like good workers, realise when they don't need to dwell on a coworker's blunder — especially if that person apologises and shows that they are sincerely sorry.

You don't need to be harsh with them in this scenario; compassion and empathy are the preferable options.

 

Source: FairyGodBoss