Manage the manager

I want to document this event today. I had discussions with my boss last Friday, however, the idea was not received well because she kept on saying it does not make sense. Over the weekend, I was kinda disturbed because on Monday morning I have to try again and this time with my side kick to explain her methods.

Come Monday, I took a deep breath, and stay calmed. I reminded myself a sentence I read in the paper 'Humility brings respect by itself. It subdues the heart of others'. I told myself I will stay very calm, and try to explain in a simple way. Question the question and put things in the right perspective.

Throughout the session, my sherman tank manager will just scream very loud when she felt we are wasting her time or it does not lead to anywhere. I told her firmly. I disagreed and spoke calmly, that this is not a waste of time, this discussion will help us to be objective and clear. Everyone's ideas are heard and debated. I heard a strong sigh, but we went on ok.

After we presented the method, my boss kept attacking she disagreed how it was done. I went on and agreed and see her point, but I explain further the reason why we did this way. Finally we agreed on how we think it should be read. I tried very hard not to explode, instead I constantly check her understanding before proceeding.

In the end, she understood, she knew our concern. She told us she will go back to her manager to clarify further. I told her thank you, the whole objective is not about who is right or wrong, but which is the consistent way so in longer term we all do the same method.

She agreed and she thanked me. I recognized today I won half the battle. I did not explode and challenge her!