Chances are, you dislike handling confrontations just like everyone else, don’t you? This could stem from a fear that the discussion will turn uncomfortable, causing you to postpone it, or perhaps you’re feeling upset but wish to keep things calm, leading you to suppress your feelings.
This is not the right approach at all. Both methods are ineffective for dealing with confrontations.
So, what’s the optimal strategy to resolve a conflict? We turned to the Young Entrepreneur Council and asked, What is your top piece of advice for facing challenges head-on? Here are their suggestions:
1. Don’t procrastinate on confronting the issue.
Whether the adversity is significant or minor, it’s crucial to address the underlying issues swiftly. This doesn’t imply acting impulsively or without consideration, but rather being ready to prioritize problems efficiently and pinpoint their true origins. Ignoring them allows the challenges to escalate, intensifying fear and uncertainty, and reducing your options. So take a deep breath, recognize, plan, and confront.
—Matthew Gellis, Keystone Solutions
2. Acknowledge your feelings before tackling the issue.
Take a moment to acknowledge and process the emotions stemming from the challenge before you attempt to resolve it. Journaling or using methods like tapping (the emotional freedom technique) for a few minutes can effectively help release emotions. This enables a leader to approach the confrontation with calm and objectivity rather than fear and intensity.
—Erin Weed, The Dig®
3. Address confrontation face-to-face.
When a problem arises—any problem—it’s always advisable to meet the person in person for a walk or coffee to discuss it. Holding in your feelings and neglecting the issue is the least effective response. Also, avoid trying to resolve it over email; if it truly matters, it must be handled in person.
—Jordan Fliegel, CoachUp Inc.
4. Show empathy.
When faced with challenges, you mustn’t rush to find an immediate solution at the expense of neglecting someone’s feelings or perspective. Take the necessary time to comprehend their viewpoint and demonstrate your understanding clearly. From there, collaborate to find a compromise. Avoid dismissing opinions, and instead, invest time to work through them.
—Miles Jennings, Recruiter.com
5. Clarify your objectives.
Before entering a challenging situation, ensure you fully grasp the issue and have adequately prepared yourself. Then, determine what outcome you desire. What is your goal after resolving the confrontation? Keep in mind that it should revolve around improving business performance, rather than focusing on an individual’s character or factors that are immutable. Approach your goal with a constructive mindset, aware of the aspects you can and cannot influence.
—Dr. Wei-Shin Lai, AcousticSheep LLC
6. Recognize that confronting issues is part of your role.
Whenever I present a challenge to one of our advisors, his common response is, “It’s your responsibility to tackle tough problems,” which might sound harsh but is nevertheless a reality. Navigating and overcoming challenges is a critical component of starting and running a business.
—Joseph Walla, HelloSign
7. Embrace adversity.
Be ready and aware that challenges are something you will encounter regularly. If you think that business comprises mostly highs and very few lows, then your time in business will be limited. Stay alert and committed to addressing adversity in all facets of your business daily.
—Mark Samuel, IWON Organics
8. Acknowledge that bad news spreads quickly.
When facing challenges, prompt communication with all involved parties (investors, partners, customers, etc.) is crucial. Entrepreneurs are inherently problem solvers, but this doesn’t mean you should hide issues; doing so will only allow them to fester. Address the reality head-on and concentrate on strategizing how to resolve the problem with your stakeholders.
—Nick Braun, Cloud
9. Keep a positive mindset while addressing confrontations.
I often envision the worst outcome in any situation I encounter, ensuring that it’s something I can manage. This approach allows me to maintain a positive demeanor and smile through difficult circumstances. Life is good!
—Thomas Cullen, St. Bonaventure University
10. Lead communication from the top.
Take personal initiative in communication. It’s vital that our whole team hears directly from the founders regarding any confusion or shifts in direction. A brief email from the CEO can promptly address concerns and bolster the confidence of the entire team.
—Ross Cohen, The Lifetime Value Co.
11. Approach each day as it comes.
The journey is challenging. People on the outside may think, This is a well-established business!, but every great business had humble beginnings. Thus, it is essential to inspire young individuals to have faith that things can improve and that their businesses can thrive with dedication over time. Each day presents its own challenges, so why worry about tomorrow?
—Alfredo Atanacio, Uassist.ME
