workplace confict Archives

You’re Ready to Talk—They’re Not: 5 Ways to Open Candid Conversations at Work (with Video)

by Karin Hurt | Apr 1, 2026 | Asking For a Friend Featured | 0 comments

When You’re the Only One Trying to Have the Candid Conversation “I’m not the one stuffing issues into the diaper genie… I’m the one trying to empty it.” How do I get others to engage in candid conversations? #AskingForAFriend That came from a participant in a recent...

How to Ditch the Conflict Avoidance Habit That Silently Kills Trust

by Karin Hurt and David Dye | Oct 27, 2025 | By Karin Hurt and David Dye | 0 comments

How to Overcome “Diaper Genie” Syndrome on Your Team Why conflict avoidance is so tempting, and destructive– and what to do instead. In parenting, the Diaper Genie is a marvel of modern engineering. Drop in a messy diaper. Twist. Seal. And voilà—the...

Beyond the Drama: How to De-Escalate an Emotional Conversation at Work

by Karin Hurt and David Dye | Jan 15, 2024 | By Karin Hurt and David Dye, powerful phrases | 0 comments

What to Say Next to Destress an Emotional Conversation at Work When people are fired up, angry, and defensive, it’s tough to have a productive conversation. One reason it’s so tricky to de-escalate an emotional conversation is that when these emotions kick in,...

How to Stop a Workplace Bully (Without Losing Your Lunch Money)

by Karin Hurt and David Dye | May 1, 2023 | By Karin Hurt and David Dye | 0 comments

Powerful Phrases to Confidently Confront a Bully at Work Looking back I feel I should have stood for myself and not give into this bully. I only feared hurting her and not getting into an ugly argument. However, this has made me not decide so many things for myself...