Welcome to this episode of Workplaces That Work! In this episode, I am talking with workplace conflict, and difficult conversation expert, Emily Shandruk of Emily Shandruk Solutions!

Key Takeaways:

Growth Comes from Conflict: Growth often emerges from moments of conflict. Instead of avoiding difficult conversations, consider them as opportunities for personal and professional development.

We Are Humans, Not Robots: It's crucial to remember that we are all human beings with emotions and vulnerabilities. When dealing with workplace conflict, acknowledge the human aspect in every interaction. Treat your colleagues with empathy and understanding.

Preparing for Difficult Conversations: When you find yourself in a situation that requires a difficult conversation, it's essential to be prepared. However, Emily advises against overpreparing, as this can make the conversation feel unnatural. Striking the right balance is key.

Scheduling Enough Time: Difficult conversations can't be rushed. Ensure you have enough time set aside to address the issue thoroughly. Rushing through such discussions can lead to misunderstandings and ineffective solutions.

Leading with the Tough Conversation: Emily emphasizes the importance of leading with the tough conversation rather than using the "sh*t sandwich" approach. This means being direct and addressing the issue head-on instead of sandwiching it between compliments or positive feedback.

People Leave People: Building strong, positive relationships with your team is crucial. People are more likely to stay and be productive in a work environment where they feel valued and connected. Take the time to get to know your team members and let them know they matter.

“Managing people is not easy; they’re not computers where you can program the desired outcome or fix a bug with new code. Rather, people are passionate and driven and can change the world in a way that no other being is capable of. That is why I’m dedicated to helping people overcome workplace conflict, work through organizational change, and assist you in achieving your goals. Whether it’s working through difficult conversations, improving employee engagement, implementing a new policy or procedure, or raising a million dollars, I have the experience and the desire to provide the solution to whatever question you’re asking.”

— Emily Shandruk