Instead of engaging in heated, free-for-all debates that often lead nowhere, consider using a version of the IMAGO conversation process. This approach ensures that everyone's opinions are heard and understood fully.

Inescapable in any workplace or relationship, conflict often emerges like an unwelcome dinnertime telemarketer. Yet, let's shatter the notion that conflict is inherently detrimental. When skillfully harnessed, conflict emerges as a catalyst for positive transformations: a forge where creativity is kindled, decisions are refined, and bonds are fortified.

This is what we call triangulation: Person A (Will) has a problem with Person B (Jada), so they talk about that problem with Person C (Jaden). It happens in families and in organizations alike, and if these behaviors are common in your workplace, beware.

Triangulation can be so common in the workplace that we can fail to recognize it. During our 25 years of working with organizations, we’ve seen organizational cultures truly damaged by workplace negativity, and often the leaders in these companies have no idea of the source or even the nature of the problem.

Some of us have been managing remote teams for years, but for many this is a brand new (and slightly anxiety-producing) experience.  Our 3-hour virtual workshop Managing REMOTELY with Mind and Heart (a spinoff of our popular 5-day leadership development workshop, Managing with Mind and Heart) provides new and experienced managers with ready-to-use skills for maintaining employee morale and engagement, communicating effectively, reinforcing team commitments and values, and managing productivity. 
 
Here are some quick and easy(ish) practices and tips to help you set your remote team up for success: