Honest HR

Crisis Management and Resolving Contentious Conversations

May 13, 2025
Scott Tillema, a former SWAT hostage negotiator and now a corporate trainer at The Negotiations Collective, shares invaluable insights on handling workplace crises and tough conversations. He discusses four key principles of crisis negotiation and emphasizes the importance of building trust during high-pressure situations. Listeners will learn practical strategies for decision-making under stress, navigating difficult dialogues with empathy, and fostering a positive workplace culture even amidst conflict.
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ADVICE

Start By Defining Your Goal

  • Always identify your goal before engaging in a conflict or crisis.
  • Clarify what you truly want to achieve to avoid reacting solely out of emotion.
ADVICE

Four Principles for Negotiations

  • Use the four principles: understanding, timing, delivery, and respect to guide difficult conversations.
  • These keep the discussion focused and productive towards resolution.
ADVICE

Respect Drives Engagement

  • Show respect by focusing on fairness, empathy, autonomy, and recognition.
  • Enhancing these elements significantly boosts employee engagement and helps create respectful environments.
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