How to de-escalate conflict with empathy
Of the many tools available for de-escalating conflict, one reigns supreme for reducing tension quickly: empathy.
Of the many tools available for de-escalating conflict, one reigns supreme for reducing tension quickly: empathy.
One of the most important interruptions you can make in a staff member’s day when you’re a leader in retail is to catch them doing the right thing.
However, as a leader, making time to meet for proactive 1:1 coaching conversations with your staff is one of the smartest time investments you can make.
Change – like that being experienced by businesses around the world in the aftermath of natural disasters, the COVID-19 pandemic, skills shortages and technology advances – challenges us.
Industries are transitioning, corporations are undergoing restructures, and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters has left many grappling with a mix of big emotions and reactions.
“I don’t have time for this and I don’t do feelings,” Graeme, a leader in the water industry told me as we discussed an upcoming change in his team.
In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world, we are constantly confronted with new ideas, information and ways of working.
It takes courage and requires human-centred leadership that balances warmth and empathy with strength and accountability.
Change is inherently challenging. Our brains are wired for comfort and certainty, seeking routine, patterns, habits and shortcuts.
“When you’re curious you’re open to learning and new ideas. You’re receptive to change and focused on getting the best outcome rather than being ‘right’,” Mether says.