Here are a few strategies and helpful phrases to use in those awkward or tense moments: Be blunt. “I respectfully disagree with that assessment, Jon.” Or “My experience has actually been quite different. I found the team to be highly engaging.” Be cagey. “I just want to play devil’s advocate here for a moment. What if we were to go with the opposite approach and use direct-mail marketing instead of relying solely on social media efforts?” Be provocative. “I want to throw out a curveball here and challenge our assumption that we have to take the deal.”
