How can you manage your emotions when resolving conflicts in Commercial Interior Design?

One needs to be neutral on assumptions and judgment and faithful to the ultimate goal of the project. The disagreement can be over material choice or color scheme or dimensional. The best choice has to be made, irrespective of personal likes and dislikes. Discussion across the table is the best way to resolve any misunderstanding that may arise. Be bold enough to have an open and fair discussion. This should put to rest all doubts and misunderstanding.

Ability to control emotion when resolving conflict will be effective if you can master the following. Identify the source of conflict. Choose your response wisely. Express your emotions constructively. Seek win-win solutions. Follow up and learn from the experience. Here's what else to

Put yourself in other party’s pov and in conjunction try to find the source of the issue. From that try to build a platform of common understanding

This is a very wide blanket statement that could apply to multiple aspects of a project. I find that stating the obvious, “I feel we’re out of sync and want to know how we can get back on track” or “as your satisfaction is my greatest concern, …” and follow up with asking exactly what the issue “can you share what exactly is on your mind?” Often times I find it’s something we’ve already worked through and the client just needs reminding.

From a large experience and complete portfolio for over 30 years as Interior Design we welcome our client in checking our references before taking a final decision. Design process is presented in advance to our clientele. How we work, and what we charge for ID services. We take time asking you about your needs, timeline, and expectations. It’s important the both parties feel comfortable with the relationship before a contract is signed and work begins. As with any professional service, a clearly written contract is essential. The agreement should outline what both parties expect to receive from the arrangement, the work that is to be done, and the fees to be charged.

If you are adhering to the project brief then I find a good way to not get emotions or feelings involved is to share how your selection works within that. Setting yourself up for success is the number one way to avoid conflict. Being able to reference back to the contract/brief etc keeps everything professional and consistent. If the client is still unhappy after pointing that out, one can ask how we need to compromise to make everyone happen. Does the project time need to now move out? Is it acceptable to go over budget to meet this new request? In addition to making the client feel seen and heard you’ve also reminded them that meeting the original project specs is top priority.

I like to remember that two things can be true at the same time. You can have your valid feelings and the customer can have theirs. I don’t know how helpful it is for a client to know your emotions as it is after all a professional interaction. Perhaps a better approach would be referencing work done to remind them that their satisfaction is your top priority. If you feel it’s not possible to make the client happy then reference your work in that aspect, “I understand you’re frustrated about X, I have done X, X, X. As I have exhausted the tools at my disposal in this regard it may be time to pursue a different avenue”. This could be many things, and may be tailored to individual needs.

When resolving conflicts in commercial interior design, practice active listening to understand others' perspectives. Stay calm and composed, focusing on the issue rather than personalizing it. Communicate clearly and diplomatically, encouraging open dialogue. Emphasize collaboration and seek mutually beneficial solutions. By approaching conflicts with a level-headed and solution-oriented mindset, you can manage emotions effectively and foster a positive working environment in commercial interior design projects.