Do you have a great idea that you would like to see implemented at your workplace? That is great – unless you have a boss that seems intent on throwing away any idea you have, and more concerned about keeping you miserable. Sadly, this is more common than most would believe, unless they themselves have had to suffer working in a hostile environment.

Getting your boss to listen to you – and yes – even agree with your idea, can be done, but it is going to take some skill – especially since most bosses will never admit that you are right, no matter what you might say to them. It is important that you realize this fact before you even go in. But, if you follow some of the tactics described here, you might have a fighting chance to get your boss to at least listen to you, and hopefully get at least some agreement.

First, make sure that you have done your homework. You need to have a complete understanding of the work and the problem that is being discussed. Be prepared for any objections they may bring up, or any possible problems that could arise from your proposal. You will stand a much better chance when you are armed with as much information as you can possibly get. And, this cannot be faked – you really need to know your job. (In the end, if you don’t, it might be a good idea for you to consider something else anyway).

Next, you really need to try thinking like your boss. This is very difficult for most people, but you need to try getting into your boss’s mind and understand how they think. Try to figure out why they run things the way they do, learn what is important to them – and then turn things around by playing to their wants and desires. Watch them for awhile to see how they relate and how they are most influenced by their surroundings. Learn what has worked in the past to get them to agree to other’s ideas.

Be prepared to hear “No”. No matter what you do, it is going to happen from time to time. Every idea you have isn’t going to be a winning one, so make sure you accept their answers professionally, and don’t confront them. This ensures that regardless of how things turn out, it can possibly diffuse the sometimes volatile relationship between the two of you, and can leave the door open for possible discussion again in the future.

If you are able to follow these strategies, you just might find that your hostile workplace environment can be a little more tolerable. Sometimes your boss just needs to see that you are genuinely trying, but be prepared for the boss that won’t give you a chance, no matter how hard you do try. Always understand your legal rights, and be prepared if things still do not improve.