Forbes

Conflict Avoidance: The Hidden Driver Behind Workplace Conflict

Many organizations invest in communication training, psychological safety initiatives, and speak-up cultures, yet workplace conflict continues to rise. Leaders often assume that developing confidence and conflict capability will improve how employees handle disagreement, but they may be overlooking another dynamic. In many cases, the real problem is not conflict itself, but people’s tendency to avoid it. […]

Category: Forbes | Thursday 4 June 2026 | Author: Anna Shields
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4 Mediation Principles That Strengthen Leadership Skills

With the pace of change in many organizations faster than ever, and workplace conflict at its highest levels, demands on leaders continue to grow. This is where the principles of mediation offer valuable insights. In my workplace mediation practice, I have seen how these principles can be applied not just in conflict situations, but in everyday […]

Category: Forbes | Thursday 23 April 2026 | Author: Anna Shields
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How To Deal With An Angry Colleague: 3 Steps To Decoding Anger

Anger in the workplace makes people feel uncomfortable. It can manifest as raised voices, tense body language, or passive-aggressive behavior. While our instinct may be to react defensively, avoid the person, or vent to co-workers, this rarely leads to a positive outcome. In workplace mediation, anger is almost always in the room. Sometimes, individuals feel […]

Category: Forbes | Thursday 5 March 2026 | Author: Anna Shields
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The One Word I’m Bringing Into Workplace Conflict In 2026

As 2026 begins, geopolitical uncertainty is causing a sense of unease about the months ahead. It’s no wonder that an increasing number of people are avoiding the news. The Ipsos Happiness Index 2025 reports that people are less happy now than they were when the survey began 14 years ago. And in the workplace, a recent study […]

Category: Forbes | Monday 26 January 2026 | Author: Anna Shields
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3 Workplace Conflict Trends Leaders Can’t Ignore In 2026

Conflict is everywhere you look. Disputes between heads of state and sparring between political leaders on a domestic level are a daily occurrence. Whilst workplace conflict rarely makes front-page news, the impact on the individuals involved and their employers can be significant. As businesses navigate another year of change, there are three workplace conflict trends […]

Category: Forbes | Tuesday 16 December 2025 | Author: Anna Shields
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