How to Lead in Product Management: Practices to Align Stakeholders, Guide Development Teams, and Create Value Together

by Roman Pichler

First, keep your speech free from anger or other unwholesome emotions—even when you feel unfairly treated, offended, or hurt. Responding to anger with anger will only worsen things. Consider not answering immediately but pausing for a few seconds to become aware of your feelings and to decide how to best respond. Second, be grateful for the other person’s time and interest, even if you disagree with the individual or don’t find the message very helpful. In the previous example, you might want to appreciate the fact that Julie is at least willing to engage in a conversation with you and share her perspective. Third, apply kind speech not only to the people who are present but also to those who are not. Avoid talking badly about others, and refrain from malicious gossip, divisive speech, and unkind comparisons.