We can spend up to four hours a week managing conflict in the workplace. It’s no surprise that business leaders have difficulty managing change, increased workloads, turnover and productivity. After being an expert jerk turned jerk expert, I understand the costly impact that conflict has on the workplace. Managing workplace conflict is not just a “nice” thing to do---it’s a necessity. Think about what you could do with those extra four hours if you were able to resolve conflict efficiently and effectively? Think about how much more focused and productive your team would be? How much happier and less stressed would they be? That feeling you get when you answered those questions is exactly what has inspired me for the past 25 years to help leaders create a workplace environment where employees are engaged, valued, and less stressed. As a professional development consultant, nationally recognized keynote speaker, and author of the book, “How to Work with Jerks,” I work at the intersection of professional development, leadership, and Emotional Intelligence. My programs help professionals manage conflict so that they can achieve their short-and long-term goals. ► Follow this 3-step process for working with jerks and dealing with conflict: Step 1: Assess the situation. When dealing with conflict it’s important to assess the situation. This involves being aware of your emotions and how you are feeling. Reflect on a specific situation you have experienced to identify these emotions. What does your behavior or body language signal to the other person? (ex. sweaty palms, fast heartbeat etc.)Step 2: Analyze the situation. Determine why you are feeling stressed. What situation has occurred that has caused you to feel stressed?· Why is the other person acting rude or abrasive toward you?· What situation has occurred that has caused you both to be stressed?Step 3: Act. Once you have a full understanding of the situation (meaning you are aware of what has caused you or the other person to be stressed and you understand what may be contributing to these feelings), you can respond and act most appropriately. Practice Makes PerfectCan I help your team make the most of their day by spending less time dealing with conflict in the workplace? Let's have a brief conversation and find out. No obligation or cost, just an opportunity to determine how I can provide value to you. To schedule your call, https://calendly.com/ericl-williamson/15min. Or, contact me at ewilliamson@tailoredtrainingsolutions.com.