I would consider this as an opportunity to connect, collaborate and explore. And, I see it as a chance to step up as a transformational leader. I make sure to respect what’s already in place, presenting my suggestions as thoughtful ways to improve rather than disrupt. I listen closely to feedback from both the team and leadership, making their input part of the solution. If there’s pushback, I take it as an opportunity to collaborate, running small pilots or having open conversations to build trust. My goal is to inspire others around a shared vision and work together to create positive change without losing trust or connection.

Navigating the tension between their thought leadership and industry norms requires a delicate balance. Champion innovation, challenging the status quo to explore uncharted territories. Acknowledge the value of established practices and the need for practical implementation. Strive to build bridges, finding common ground between their forward-thinking ideas and the realities of the industry. Engage in constructive dialogue, actively listening to concerns and seeking to address them with tailored solutions. By fostering collaboration and demonstrating the tangible benefits of their approach, aim to gradually shift industry norms towards a more progressive and impactful future.

One of the most important skills in conflict resolution is active listening. Instead of focusing on formulating our response, we should strive to understand the other person's perspective. By listening attentively and empathetically, we can gain valuable insights and find common ground.

Challenging industry norms can be daunting, but it leads to innovation.Here is the approach: 1. Respect the Status Quo: Acknowledge the value of existing practices while presenting your perspective as an enhancement, not a replacement. 2. Back It with Evidence: Use data, case studies, or success stories to demonstrate the tangible benefits of your approach. 3. Encourage Dialogue: Frame your ideas as an invitation for discussion. Innovation thrives on collaboration, not confrontation. 4. Be Patient: Industry shifts take time. Consistency and persistence are key. 5. Stay Respectful: Challenge ideas, not people. Mutual respect builds bridges. Conflict isn’t a roadblock—it’s an opportunity to refine your vision and inspire change.

This is not a conflict. It is an opportunity. While I respect the value of best practices and sharing them, my belief is industry norms are a representation of the past. My world is all about developing and deploying next practices, that by very nature are departures or clashes with what preceded them or at least builds on them. How do I handle the conflict: Embrace It.

I have seen if we present the case with current challenges with the specific industry norms and share the benefits of the new approach, half of the conflict is recolved. Next would be to come out with a precise implementation plan and implement within a smaller area/function and demonstrate the benefits. It can then be easily implemented in a larger scale and set it as a new norm.

Partnering with like-minded professionals transforms individual thought leadership into a collective force, amplifying credibility and driving meaningful change. By uniting diverse perspectives and leveraging shared expertise, such alliances position innovation as a collective movement rather than a personal agenda. Partners not only mediate between disruptive ideas and traditional norms but also navigate resistance with strategic insights, providing solutions that balance creativity with respect for industry practices. This synergy builds a powerful coalition capable of challenging conventions, resolving conflicts, and shaping a more progressive future.

Navigating the clash between thought leadership and industry norms requires a balance of confidence, adaptability, and strategic communication. Begin by thoroughly understanding the industry's entrenched practices and the rationale behind them to build credibility. Present your ideas with evidence-based insights, highlighting the tangible benefits they bring to stakeholders. Engage in open dialogue to address skepticism, showing respect for existing norms while framing your perspective as an evolution rather than a rejection. By demonstrating humility, fostering collaboration, and showcasing the practical impact of your vision, you can turn conflict into an opportunity for innovation and industry growth

Why does it matter? Speak your truth. But recognize that other folks came before you and were smart and effective too. There’s something very powerful about being passionate about your chosen field and challenging conventional wisdom, while also learning about the past and acknowledging the wisdom that shaped the field in the first place.