DISAGREEING WITH COMPANY POLICY ISN'T PART OF YOUR PLAN

At some point in your career you may be in a situation where upper management puts into effect new policies with which you do not agree; however, it is your job to implement those new policies.

It could be that the company you joined has been sold or consolidated and is now under new management.  It could be that someone has gotten promoted over you or, as most of us are now experiencing, business needs to be done differently to survive.  For whatever reason, management has some new policies you do not buy into.

What do you do and how do you react?

First and foremost, do not overreact even though your first impulse may be to confront your supervisors with your disagreement.  Take a breath and try to put yourself in their shoes, try to understand why the policy is being implemented.  Do not approach the issue as a “smoking gun.”

Once you have settled down, schedule a meeting with your supervisors and let them know that you would like to discuss your concerns about the new policies.  Give them time to get prepared to properly answer your questions.

When you meet with them, have questions ready and solid facts and reasons why you have concerns about the policies.  Don't be emotional, but be professional.  Be prepared to lose your arguments, which more than likely is exactly what will happen.

Many businesses have consolidated or have gone public so changes are natural.  Most businesses today are facing crisis management and survival tactics; changes that most of us never imagined are coming fast and furious.  Know that in most cases, new policies are aimed at helping the company as a whole.

Management may need some time to research your concerns and may not have immediate answers. It is important that they listen to you and be able to educate you on why certain changes are needed. In some cases, you may not be so lucky to get a sympathetic listener, but try.  If you are working with good managers, they should be open to hearing you and hopefully will be able to be open in return.  In some situations, they may not be able to share confidential information.

In the end, you must remember that you were hired to do what management dictates. You are paid to support their objectives and be a team player.

If you have strong convictions or morals which keep you from buying into those changes, it will be in your best interest and that of the company to leave.  Do so in a professional and positive manner so that you can have their support and their positive references.