by admin on August 31, 2009
A few days ago, a party to a conflict described to me the root of the problem, from this person’s perspective: “He shouldn’t have to be told; he should know.” This concept is a common one in conflicts involving people with ongoing relationships: business partners or co-workers, families struggling to manage jointly-held assets, families grappling with tough healthcare decisions regarding an aging loved one.
The concept captures two dangers in communications that can escalate when a dispute is brewing.
First, everyone should be able to read my mind and know what I think. If the other person in this conflicts really knows me — and this person should — my point of view should be obvious.
Second, when communications go poorly, blame gets assigned. Our communication problems are caused by the other person’s failure to read my mind and it’s important to know who is at fault.
A better path, if resolving the conflict effectively is the real goal, is to voice your perspective: politely and thoughtfully. And if communications crop up, fixing them should be a higher priority than assigning blame for the lapse.
by admin on August 30, 2009
I was delighted to have my tip, “Women Smooth Ruffled Feathers”, chosen as one of 95 published on August 25, 2009 in the Toilet Paper Entrepreneur’s blog.
The introduction to the piece states: “The biggest change ever in entrepreneurship is occurring right now. For centuries men have lead the entrepreneurial frontier. But, for a multitude of reasons it is changing. It’s now the women’s turn to be the leaders of entrepreneurship. Here are just few (yes, just a few) reasons why.”
Visit the TPE blog and look for my idea about women entrepreneurs at #88. As you might expect, it’s an idea about being better at managing conflicts in order to better manage your business.
by admin on August 8, 2009
On August 7, 2009, I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Barry Moltz on his weekly online radio talk show, “Business Insanity Talk Radio.” I was one of four guests discussing “The Art of the Apology.” Each guest offered a perspective on using apologies effectively in the business world. I focused on the role apologies can play in mediation and resolving conflicts and mediation.
Barry’s blog post summarizes the guests’ main points, including apology’s role in conflict resolution.
by admin on August 5, 2009
On Friday, August 7, 2009, I am scheduled to be interviewed by Barry Moltz on his talk radio program, Business Insanity Talk Radio. He describes the show’s focus as “the craziness of small business” — what “makes it exciting, interesting, and totally unpredictable.”
The show broadcasts at 9:00 Central Time at www.blogtalkradio.com. Barry has titled the show “The Art of the Apology” and poses the question to listeners: “Do you know how or when to apologize in business so it is heartfelt and effective?”
Tune in (click in?) and listen to a lively conversation about conflict, how to resolve it, and how to apologize wisely.