How to manage conflict in the workplace – sometimes it can be quite a challenge and may take a lot of valuable time to address, but it does need to be addressed, since it will affect your entire team. Conflicts have a way of snowballing out of control and it is best to address conflict quickly and directly.

If the conflict is between two employees here are some tips for addressing the situation:

• Talk to each one separately, in order to understand the reason for the conflict
• Talk to both employees together and try to reach a compromise in the area of conflict, if possible.
• Make it clear to both employees that they will need to remain professional and maintain their working relationship, regardless of whether the conflict can be resolved.

Having an atmosphere of openness, honesty and respect encourages employees to work out their issues in a mature way. You can lead by example and once you have established your rules your time spent on conflicts will decrease.

It has been said that more people fear public speaking than death. It does not have to be that way, however, if you learn to avoid these common blunders:

• Being ill-prepared. Take time to learn your material thoroughly and practice, practice, practice.
• Lack of confidence. Realize that people want you to see you succeed. If you need to, fake it until you make it.
• Do not engage the audience. Engage the audience by making eye contact, asking questions, and throwing in some humor.

Once you are comfortable with your material you can focus on your message and talk to your audience as if they are a group of friends. Of course, the more practice you have with public speaking, as with anything, the better you will become. Keep your voice at an even keel, not too loud or too soft, talking at a normal conversational pace. Work with a coach to get some feedback and help with relaxation techniques.