Here's how you can navigate assertiveness and diplomacy in business conflict resolution.

Absolutely! Listening and understanding are the foundation of every partnership. And a good businessman knows not to sell anything to someone whose needs he does not know. God gave us two ears and two eyes, but only one mouth and one nose, which we should not stick into everything. Eyes and ears are the smart person's best friends. Observe and listen and compare the two. If words and actions do not match, someone is trying to deceive you.

Before diving into conflict resolution, it's crucial to understand the root causes of conflict. Conflicts in business can arise from misunderstandings, differences in values or goals, competition for resources, or personality clashes. Recognizing the underlying issues helps in addressing the conflict effectively rather than just treating the symptoms. Understanding the context and the perspectives of all parties involved sets the stage for a more informed and empathetic resolution process.

Always treat people with respect. Explain your position and remain open to other points of view. Make fair decisions, but do not give up your own interests. Distance yourself from stronger people if they do not respect you. And remember that if someone puts you down or belittles you, this is a sign of their weakness. Anyone who needs that will always feel weak in front of you.

Assertive communication is key to resolving conflicts without escalating them. It involves expressing your thoughts, feelings, and needs clearly and respectfully while also considering the perspectives of others. Use "I" statements to convey your viewpoint without sounding accusatory, such as "I feel concerned when deadlines are missed because it impacts our project timeline." This approach fosters a constructive dialogue where all parties feel heard and valued.

Diplomacy is the art of overcoming differences and creating win-win situations for all parties when interests conflict. Listening to and understanding all parties and recognizing false intentions is the basis for taking the right action.

Balance and meeting on equal terms is the prerequisite for any healthy relationship. You cannot find a solution or conclude a long-term deal with someone who looks down on you or who you look down on.

Escalation is the deliberate use of emotions to assert one's interests. The use of emotions is often manipulative and sometimes a sign of dishonest intentions. In such cases, the discussions must be brought back to the rational level to ensure that a rational and sustainable solution can be found.