Work Environment: Did you know that studies show you should have difficult work conversations after lunch?

Work Environment: Did you know that studies show you should have difficult work conversations after lunch?

Here’s why – along with two other tips for handling conflicts.

Leaders don’t need education or experience

I often have to tell clients that as long as management stays within the boundaries of the law, "it’s not illegal to be a bad leader or an unlikeable person."However, it can still cost the company a lot – how well do employees work when they feel insecure at their job?It can, therefore, be wise for companies to offer communication training to their leaders. In the healthcare sector, for instance, three out of four complaints against doctors and other staff are primarily due to poor communication.

Have difficult conversations after lunch

Studies have shown that some judges give more lenient sentences earlier in the day and just after lunch. In other words, schedule important conversations when blood sugar levels are most stable.

Meeting invitations without a subject line

If you’re calling a meeting about something that could be difficult for the person involved, please have a verbal conversation first. Don’t underestimate how tough such emails can be for the recipient.It doesn’t help if you, as a manager, think it’s obvious that such an invitation is coming.

In a study where participants were asked if they, as passengers with no flying experience, could land a plane in a crisis, almost half answered yes. I even considered for a moment that maybe I could manage it myself… and I can’t even drive a car. This might suggest that we humans don’t always have the best self-awareness. This applies to both managers and employees.

Bonus tip

It’s wise to learn as much as you can about effective conflict management before you actually need the knowledge.This insight can be valuable for both leaders and employees. Good communication can make all the difference.