Tips from March 5, 2010 The Small Business tips today discuss handling conflict management. Engage in active listening. There are two sides to every story, and listening to others will help in understanding what the problem is, and open up ways to solve the issue at hand. Pay attention to others. Conflicts involve more than one party. Take the time to listen to both parties, and try to understand where each is coming from. Arrange a meeting between the parties involved in the conflict. A mediation session will allow both parties to confront each other in a controlled setting to talk out their problems. Communicate clearly. A conflict will never be solved without clear, honest, and open communication.  Daily Overview: Be a leader when it comes to conflict management and take control of the situation. You will gain respect. [Read Full Article]

Tips from March 2, 2010 The Small Business tips today discuss how to improve people skills. Pay attention to others. Observe, acknowledge, ask for their opinions and beliefs, and make eye contact. Everyone loves humor. Be clever, make people smile and laugh. They might not remember the joke, but will remember how you made them feel. Don't complain. Spare your grievances. Keep your negativity to yourself to avoid boring others and giving yourself a bad reputation. Be appreciative. Find positives in every situation. Tell people you appreciate them through encouragement, praise, and welcoming gestures. Daily Overview: Improving your people skills well help in creating and enhancing professional and personal relationships. [Read Full Article]