Lets face itopenly disagreeing with someone in a way thats constructive and non-condescending can be tough.

But, when that someone isyour boss?

Things suddenly get a whole lot trickier.

This post originally appeared onThe Muse.

Sounds like a true conundrum, doesnt it?

But, its not impossible!

Heres what it’s crucial that you know to oppose your boss, without losing your job.

Carefully Consider the Time and Place

Sometimes its not only about what you sayits aboutwhenandwhereyou say it.

Are you in a team meeting where everyone is sharing suggestions and ideas with your manager?

That could be a perfect opportunity to speak up, without it seeming aggressive,condescending, or accusatory.

Would your boss feel embarrassed or ganged up on if you voiced your opinion in a large group setting?

Then youre better off setting up a separate, one-on-one meeting to talk it out.

When and where you choose to share your opinion might seem like a minor consideration.

But, it can really make a world of difference in how your supervisor reacts to your disagreement.

Start Positive

Im usually not one for padding blows and sugarcoating thingsI tend tobe direct.

This is exactly why its important to start off your opposition by clearly pointing out something positive.

Whatever you’re able to think ofsegueing into your disagreement with a compliment always helps.

Sure, it can seem a little brown-nosery.

Believe me, that wont end well for you.

How do you get around this?

However, I think having these on Wednesdays instead of Mondays would be better.

What do you think?

Questions are crucial for making your opinion more of a suggestion or request, rather than a strict mandate.

Focus on Results

Anygood bosswill care more about the success of the company than his or her own ego.

But, Ill keep my fingers crossed thatyoursdoes.

Lets use our team meeting example from above to really drive the point home.

Well use those exact same sentences, but just add a little something to it.

I really like your idea of holding weekly team meetings for everyone to get on the same page.

What do you think?

See how much more powerful that is?

Respect the Final Decision

In the end, your boss has the final say.

Well, it’s crucial that you respect that.

But, that my way or the highway attitude wont do you any favors.

In fact, its a surefire way to be shown the door.

Feeling the need to speak up anddisagree with your bossis enough to induce immediate panic.

However, it doesnt need to be as bold and brazen as you think it does.

How to Disagree With Your Boss (Without Getting Fired)| The Muse