We definitely have our smooth and easy days in our home businesses—those days where we seem to be sailing along and getting along with everyone. There are also times, however, when we have conflicts with prospects, customers, clients, colleagues, or vendors. Some of those conflicts can last a while as we attempt to work through and negotiate what is best for both parties. Getting beyond a conflict and putting it behind us can be a big challenge as well and take some care and attention in order to preserve relationships and our business reputation.
I think the first step to putting conflict behind us and moving on is to make up our mind that is what we are going to do. It may seem incredibly obvious, but deciding not to hold a grudge and to move on as soon as possible is an important step in being able to work through and get beyond a conflicted situation. Be sure to work through what needs to be worked through and then let the rest go. Holding on to perceived injuries or clinging to the problem will make it impossible to really put the conflict behind you.
It is during times of conflict in the work world that good listening skills are a must. If you make sure to listen to what the other party is saying and identify their concerns and issues, you will be better able to not only solve the conflict, but to also move beyond it once things have been addressed. Take note of what has happened and what each party’s concerns were so that you can attempt to avoid some conflicts in the future. I also find that making some sort of statement or peace offering to show that I have put the issue in the past can be helpful—a special discount, sending a personal note, or offering to do something extra can all be ways of showing that there are no hard feelings and that you want the working relationship to be preserved.
Also: Negotiate with Principles
Keeping People and Problems Separate