Star Wars IV: A New Hope

“Sharing an Opposing Viewpoint in a Meeting is at Your Own Risk”

Google Movie Synopsis:

The Imperial Forces -- under orders from cruel Darth Vader (David Prowse) -- hold Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) hostage, in their efforts to quell the rebellion against the Galactic Empire. Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) and Han Solo (Harrison Ford), captain of the Millennium Falcon, work together with the companionable droid duo R2-D2 (Kenny Baker) and C-3PO (Anthony Daniels) to rescue the beautiful princess, help the Rebel Alliance, and restore freedom and justice to the Galaxy.

Scenario:

During a meeting inside the battle station, the top brass of the Imperial Forces meet to discuss plans to defeat the rebel rebellion.

Selected Scene:

Admiral Motti: Any attack made by the Rebels against this station would be a useless gesture, no matter what technical data they have obtained. This station is now the ultimate power in the universe! I suggest we use it!
 Darth Vader: Don't be too proud of this technological terror you've constructed. The ability to destroy a planet is insignificant next to the power of the Force.
 Admiral Motti: Don't try to frighten us with your sorcerer's ways, Lord Vader. Your sad devotion to that ancient religion has not helped you conjure up the stolen data tapes, or given you clairvoyance enough to find the rebels' hidden fort-...
 Darth Vader: I find your lack of faith disturbing.
 Governor Tarkin: Enough of this! Vader, release him!

Business Tip:

There’s a huge difference between critiquing an idea/plan versus objecting to one.  Sharing insights on why something may not work or flagging potential issues yet to be discussed is a good thing, however, disagreeing or speaking out against something that is supported by an executive is dangerous.

I’m not condoning you stay quiet if you have fact-based information supporting your stance, what I am saying, if you have a point to make that will place your boss/manager or a company executive in an embarrassing situation—don’t do it!

Instead of sharing your comments in the meeting, ask for a private opportunity or let them know you have “new” information you would like to share and ask to stop by their office or call them after the meeting.  As in the case with Mr. Vader, you never want company management to perceive your faith in the leadership is questionable.