Joyce Weiss

I work with organizations and individuals who want to kick conflict and chaos to the curb - Communication Strategist and Master Coach

By

5 More Action Steps (16 – 20) to Reduce Drama and Stress

Hello, Dear Kick Conflict to the Curb Readers!

Are you ready for the last 5 action steps in the series to Kick Conflict to the Curb?

I hope that you’re using the strategies that you have been learning from these posts and videos and reducing your stress and drama at work and home!
If you have questions or need more details on any of the content, please reach out and send me an email:  HERE.  

This article is Part 4 in the series: 20 Action Steps to Kick Conflict to the Curb.
Here’s a link from Part 1 where you’ll find the first 5 strategies

Here’s a link from Part 2 where you’ll find action steps 6-10

Here’s a link from Part 3 where you’ll find action steps 11-15

 The action steps come from creating content for my virtual class and coaching clients.  If you want more information on any of the action steps, do a search in the search bar on this site: JoyceWeiss.com.

Action Steps #1: Clarify the boundaries

What boundaries do you need to set for yourself to achieve a better work/life balance?

It’s time to go deep and discover boundaries that you need to share with others who waste your valuable time.
I’m suggesting that you do this for home and work.  These days most of us are working at home and the boundaries are blurred.

I just had this conversation with a new neighbor, Randy.

Randy saw that I just returned from a bike ride as he was introducing himself to my husband.  Randy said, “Joyce, my wife can join you on the trails because she loves bike riding too.”

I need my space and quiet when I walk or bike ride since virtual training and coaching is all about me listening and talking!  Hey, not complaining… these are my facts. 🙂

I said, “Randy, thanks for suggesting this.  Let’s get together on the weekend to get to know each other.  I need quiet when I’m on my bike or walk since that is my time to relax.”  He totally got it and said, “Hey, I get this and respect you for sharing your truth.”

I think this is going to be a great new relationship.  I set boundaries while still being cordial so we can get to know each other better.

What boundaries do you need to set for yourself?

Action Steps #2:  Deal with Bullies bullies in the workplace |action steps| bullies at work | bullying in the workplace

Hold meetings to discuss how Different = Different.  Different does NOT Equal Wrong.
This seems so easy. It’s not, yet this statement says it all. It’s a great lesson that we are not all alike.  The idea is for all of us to get to know people at work who don’t look or sound like us.

Bullies are put in their place when they see leadership sharing the importance of accepting each other’s differences.

We don’t need to like or respect everyone at work.  The idea is how to get along even when we don’t like our colleagues. It’s a true test of strength.  Believe me when I share that this is so hard for me yet I know that it’s necessary in order to reduce the drama at work and home.

Action Steps #3: Pull Back and Don’t Push Back

Pull back when bullies attack you with sarcasm. What is the best way to respond so that you feel good about yourself?
You can even walk away from someone who harasses you with constant sarcasm or anger.

Please refer to this article on Verbal Aikido that goes into more detail on how you can master this strategy like a pro!

Action Steps #4: Get in the Gap- Your Safe Place action steps

Gain control in tough conversations taking a breath to decide how you want to respond. The Gap is in the middle of you thinking what to say and opening your mouth.
It’s an important strategy to use in your toolbox because it will help you from possibly saying something you wished you didn’t say.
Can you relate?  I sure can!

Here’s an article on THE GAP for more details.

Action Steps #5: Learn to Be Direct with Respect® 

You will see a dramatic improvement in communication when you learn Be Direct with Respect®

All you need to do is use the following formula:  I am_________when _______ because ________.

Here’s an example:  I am frustrated when we all agreed with the new code of conduct because some of the team are still getting to work late.
This statement is strong and you can then go deeper and ask for feedback on how to rectify this situation.

Let’s Stay Connected

Which Action Steps speak to you?  What does your organization do to reduce drama and stress at work?

Share your thoughts in the comment section below or send me an email HERE.

Continue being engaged as a Kick Conflict to the Curb Weekly Update member and start sharing your thoughts about the videos or articles.
Hey, Dear Readers, I’m here for you when you have questions about your own communication or relationship “challenges.”

Feel free to send me an email. Full disclosure here:
I don’t charge anything when people send me questions or comments via email. Staying connected is what it’s all about for me.

Have a Great Week!

Joyce Weiss, M.A., CSP, CVP
Master Coach
Queen of Conflict Resolution

Remember, You Get What YOU Tolerate!

 

By

5 More Action Steps (11-15) to Reduce Stress and Drama!

Hello, Dear Kick Conflict to the Curb Readers!

Are you ready for 5 more action steps to Kick Conflict to the Curb?

I hope that you’re using the strategies that you have been learning from these posts and videos and reducing your stress and drama at work and home!
If you have questions or need more details on any of the content, please reach out and send me an email:  HERE.  

This article is Part 3 in the series: 20 Action Steps to Kick Conflict to the Curb.
Here’s a link from Part 1 where you’ll find the first 5 strategies

Here’s a link from Part 2 where you’ll find action steps 6-10

The action steps come from creating content for my virtual class and coaching clients.  If you want more information on any of the action steps, do a search in the search bar on this site: JoyceWeiss.com.

Here are action steps 11-15 and look for the rest next week. 🙂

Action Steps #11:
Invite everyone to write down their ideas on how they would change things if their name was on the building

This is a powerful exercise to do with the entire team.

I make sure that people send in their ideas anonymously to make sure that the answers are honest and bold.

I asked the CEO to leave the room during training so we could create an open dialogue with the entire team.  The CEO and I met after the session and had a direct and tough conversation.  It’s amazing how many clients want me to do this exercise after I give them options for the training.

We have some great leaders!  Now let’s get the weak ones and educate them on how to be an even better leader.

What is your answer?  What changes would YOU make if your name was on the building?  Please comment below or send me a private email. 

 Action Steps #12:
Learn something new today. Constant learning is a key to business success

How is your field changing and how can you stay ahead of your competition? 

Many of my clients share how much they’ve learned during the pandemic.  They’ve attended master classes more so than ever in their career.

Your Master Coach has created an entirely new virtual class {Kick Conflict to the Curb} and coaching packages.  I’ve enrolled in at least 10 virtual training courses to learn how to set up a virtual office, create powerful videos, connect with people in an engaging style and so much more.  My brain is thanking me and is happy.

Action Steps #13:
Ask yourself how you are Adding Value to the Company and Why should the company keep you?

This is a question that I ask almost all coaching clients. We need to toot our own horn or no one else will notice us.  There is a fine line between bragging and speaking up so others hear our ideas.
This action step is perfect when you ask for a promotion.  Share your ideas on how you’ve saved the company money or time.

At times people don’t realize how valuable we are to the organization because leaders have so much to do.  This is your time to educate them on why they need to keep you.

Action Steps #14: action steps |gain control with boundaries
Clarify the boundaries that you need to set for yourself to achieve a better work/life balance

What boundaries do you need to set with your colleagues or direct reports?

  • open-door policy?
  • availability for phone calls or zoom meetings?
  • handling small talk about the weekend when you have deadlines?
  • figuring out how to run away from negative colleagues

Once you know your boundaries share them with others and make sure to ask them about their boundaries.  We all have needs that must be met.  If not, resentment seeps into the conversations.

I belonged to numerous masterminds and loved each one.  As my business started getting busier, I couldn’t continue growing my business and spending time with all the mastermind groups.
It was a hard decision to drop out of them because each group consisted of like-minded colleagues who LOVED constant learning and growth.

Action Steps #15:
Make a list of what can be done to reduce employee burnout

  • This is such an important action step because employees will come up with some great ideas that match their needs.
  • Listen to all ideas.  Discuss how they could or couldn’t work.  Massage these ideas to fit with the organization’s culture.
  • Ask and listen.  You will see an immediate improvement in morale.
  • People want to be heard!  Have you heard me say this at least in every article?  I sure hope so.  🙂

Let’s Stay Connected

Which Action Steps speak to you?  What does your organization do to reduce drama and stress at work?

Those of you who share either in the comment section below or send me an email HERE will receive a new video (that I have not posted yet) about using props to engage your virtual meetings. It’s short and contains tips to liven up your virtual meetings.

Continue being engaged as a Kick Conflict to the Curb Weekly Update member and start sharing your thoughts about the videos or articles.
Hey, Dear Readers, I’m here for you when you have questions about your own communication or relationship “challenges.”

Feel free to send me an email. Full disclosure here:
I don’t charge anything when people send me questions or comments via email. Staying connected is what it’s all about for me.

Have a Great Week!

Joyce Weiss, M.A., CSP, CVP
Master Coach
Queen of Conflict Resolution

P.S. Career Advancement is like riding a bike: Shift Gears from coasting to owning the road!

P.P.S. Here’s the link for Part 1 in the series with the first 5 action steps.

P.P.P.S Here’s a link from Part 2 where you’ll find action steps 6-10

 

 

 

By

Yes We Can Change FEAR Into Action!

Fear into action

 

Hello,  DEAR Kick Conflict to the Curb Weekly Update Readers!

I just thought about the power of this quote on changing fear into action.  I use this quote when clients want to improve their communication skills and relationships both at work and home.

Most of us don’t have the skills on how to successfully have that tough conversation.  It’s always a risk! Always! There is no guarantee that it will go well.
I always say that it’s worth the risk.  Our confidence level improves the more success we have with those difficult people or conversations.

It’s all about changing our mindset.  Not easy to do – and so necessary to change fear into action. We all need coaches or a support system to help us when we are stuck. Future blog posts will cover the 5 strategies in my Weiss Communication Success Plan – a significant cornerstone of our virtual course; Kick Conflict to the Curb.

If you want more information on the powerful communication strategies, all you have to do is search for past articles on the following related topics:

  • Conflict Resolution
  • The GAP-Your Safe Place
  • Making Conversations Safe
  • Triggers
  • Be Direct with Respect
  • Verbal Aikido

Let’s Stay Connected!

  • When have you changed fear into action?
  • Was it easy or hard for you?
  • How did this experience change you in a positive way?

I’ve shared my story about changing my fear of deep water into action by taking snorkeling lessons in a pool – Hey small steps, folks. 🙂 The action is that I took a trip to Bora Bora and you couldn’t get me out of the South Pacific because I loved the experience.  If I could overcome this lifelong fear, you can too.

What are some of your fears that you would like to overcome? Those of you who share either in the comment section below or send me an email will receive a new video (that I have not posted yet) about using props to engage your virtual meetings. It’s short and contains tips to liven up your virtual meetings.

Hey, Dear Readers, I’m here for you when you have questions about your own communication or relationship “challenges.” Feel free to send me an email. Full disclosure here: I don’t charge anything when people send me questions or comments via email. Staying connected is what it’s all about for me.

Have a Great Week!

Joyce Weiss, M.A., CSP, CVP
Master Coach
Queen of Conflict Resolution

P.S. Career Advancement is like riding a bike: Shift Gears from coasting to owning the road!

P.P.S. Check out more motivational quotes in the search section for more inspiration.

 

 

By

5 More Action Steps to Kick Conflict to the Curb

Hello, Dear Kick Conflict to the Curb Readers!

Are you ready for 5 more action steps to Kick Conflict to the Curb?

I hope that you’re using the strategies that you have been learning from these posts and videos and reducing your stress and drama at work and home!
If you have questions or need more details on any of the content, please reach out and send me an email:  HERE.  

This article is Part 2 in the series: 20 Action Steps to Kick Conflict to the Curb.
Here’s a link from Part 1 where you’ll find the first 5 strategies

The action steps come from creating content for my virtual class and coaching clients.  If you want more information on any of the action steps, do a search in the search bar on this site: JoyceWeiss.com.

Action Steps #6
Set up a Mentor Program Where All Generations Help Each Other Using Their Unique Talents, Skills, and Perspectives.

More seasoned employees can share their experience and the lessons learned from past mistakes.  Younger employees can support more experienced employees on how to look at situations through a different pair of eyes.  We can and do all grow professionally from each other if we only look at this as a great opportunity to learn from each other’s skills, talents, and experiences.

How does your company use the talents and skills of the team to get even better?

Action Steps #7
Encourage Gen Y and Gen X to Share Ideas Since They Bring a Fresh Perspective to the Team. action plans | communication strategies

This is a great time to stop blaming our generational differences and actually listen to all perspectives.

Younger employees can show others how to use new technical resources.
More experienced employees need to be open and stop saying negative things about “the younger generations.”  Just saying!

Action Steps #8
Ask All Generations to Help Each Other with Face-to-Face Communication and Social Networking Skills.

I see different factions in the workplace that complain about slowness, multi-tasking, being on tablets too much, or not having a work ethic.

Leaders who know how to make sure that everyone feels heard will see such great engagement and loyalty!  This stuff works.

Action Steps #9
Ask Your Team What Opportunities Will Open Up When Everyone is Accountable to Each Other.

A great exercise is to bring several departments together and discuss what each person needs from others to improve productivity, efficiency, morale, and communications.
A rule must be that it’s a FREE judgment zone.  Anyone can say anything as long as it’s with respect and not about being right – just expressing their thoughts.

Action Steps #10
Start a Discussion with Your Colleagues About What You and They’re Doing to Commit Fully to Their Job for an Interesting Discussion.

I find that when clients’ expectations are not clear, employees feel more stress and less confidence doing a good job. Everyone needs to know what his or her functions are in the job.
You may be thinking, “Joyce, this is common sense.  Of course, leaders need to be clear.”  Well, according to my clients, they’ve left jobs for this one reason.  They were tired of all the confusion and finger-pointing.

This one action step will make a huge difference for you if expectations are not clear.

Let’s Stay Connected!

What are some of your strategies with these action steps? Which one speaks to you?

  • What kind of mentorship do you offer?
  • How does your company make sure that all generations are respected and heard?
  • How does leadership make expectations clear for you?

Those of you who share either in the comment section below or send me an email HERE will receive a new video (that I have not posted yet) about using props to engage your virtual meetings. It’s short and contains tips to liven up your virtual meetings.

Continue being engaged as a Kick Conflict to the Curb Weekly Update member and start sharing your thoughts about the videos or articles.
Hey, Dear Readers, I’m here for you when you have questions about your own communication or relationship “challenges.”

Feel free to send me an email. Full disclosure here:
I don’t charge anything when people send me questions or comments via email. Staying connected is what it’s all about for me.

Have a Great Week!

Joyce Weiss, M.A., CSP, CVP
Master Coach
Queen of Conflict Resolution

P.S. Career Advancement is like riding a bike: Shift Gears from coasting to owning the road!

P.P.S. Here’s the link for Part 1 in the series with the first 5 action steps.

 

By

5 Action Steps to Kick Conflict to the Curb

Hello, Dear Kick Conflict to the Curb Readers!

The next 3 posts will include 5 new action steps to Kick Conflict to the Curb.  The action steps come from creating content for my virtual class and coaching clients. If you want more information on any of the action steps, do a search in the search bar on this site {JoyceWeiss.com}.

There are 20 action steps in total and I look forward to hearing which ones are your favorite ones.

Action Steps # 1: Use the Power Talk Formula Team Building | ACTION STEPS

This is such an important strategy to keep in your toolbox because it works!

Here’s the Formula:
“I am…” (Your emotional response)

“When I…” (Nonjudgmental observation)

“Because…” (How it affects you)

I am frustrated when boundaries are not followed because we just conducted a meeting on this important issue for our team.

This powerful statement is all about:

  • Sharing your concern
  • It’s not judgmental or sarcastic – just stating the facts

Your next step is to go deeper with those who don’t follow the new department rules.

Action Step #2: Use Verbal Aikido

This is my clients’ favorite strategy to learn and use. I’ve heard many of you share your experience with verbal aikido and I’m thrilled about this. 🙂

Verbal Aikido:

  • Take back control when you pull back, not push back
  • Repeat the same words or agree with the bully
  • Step into the GAP-Your Safe Place to think of the best response

Action Step #3: Ask a Positive Question to the Negative Person

action steps

This action step may change the mindset of the negative person. Even if it doesn’t at least this is a reminder that you can leave the conversation if the negativity gets out of line.

A great question to use is:  “What is something good that happened to you today?”  This will force a positive response.

Action Steps #4: Create a Code of Conduct with Your Team

A code of conduct helps set the tone and expectations of everyone on the team. It’s best to have someone lead the discussion who is NOT the leader or boss. All department or team members need to be present to get a good representation and better results.

The 3 article links below will give you more details on how to use this powerful action step.

Toolbox Alert #1:  A Code of Conduct Reinforces Accountability

Toolbox Alert #2: A Code of Conduct Improves the Team

Toolbox Alert #3: A Code of Conduct Really Works

Action Steps #5: Improve Morale by Giving a Day Off to an Employee Who Finds a New Hire

This one action step will give you a lot of traction with your company.  Your employees know the company. When they recommend a friend or colleague, it works out well {most of the time} because they want to work with like-minded individuals.

Joyce, What are Your Thoughts About These 5 Action Steps?

I’m glad you asked! 😉  Verbal Aikido and the Power Talk Formula are both parts of the Weiss Communication Success Plan.  Once you learn and implement these 2 strategies, you will transform your communication from not being heard to feeling confident to use your voice.

The great news is that you will be the first group to know when I launch my next Kick Conflict to the Curb Virtual Class in April.  Look for announcements because this is where we take strategies and practice during the live classes so you can put them to use immediately.

The code of conduct and appreciating employees for bringing in new hires help improve morale because people feel heard.

Please share which action step is your favorite, so far.

Let’s stay connected 

Please share these articles and videos with your company, colleagues, friends, or family who could benefit from the content.

You are always welcome to send me an email with questions or concerns about your conflict resolution challenges. Reach out HERE  by sending me an email 

Here are 2 FREE Resources to help you Kick Conflict to the Curb:

Do you want to know how your communication skills impact your success at work?

a. Grab your FREE Communication Assessment to find out blind spots, strengths, and areas for growth.

You will receive your results from me along with 4 videos about communication strategies that you can put into action immediately.  Here’s the link:  https://www.KickConflicttoTheCurb.com.

 b. Sign up for our Kick Conflict to the Curb Weekly Update
https://www.JoyceWeiss.com for articles about bullies, communication strategies, coaching secrets, conflict resolution case scenarios, motivational posters, interviews with thought leaders, plus so much more.

Have a GREAT Week!

Joyce Weiss, M.A., CSP, CVP
Master Coach
Queen of Conflict Resolution

Remember, You Get What YOU Tolerate!

 

  

Contact Joyce

Joyce Weiss
6737 Oyster Cove
West Bloomfield, MI 48323

Email: joyce@joyceweiss.com
Phone: 1-248-681-5831

Let’s Connect

Sign Up for Joyce's Weekly Newsletter!
Get one newsletter a week on Joyce's latest topic!
"No spam" guarantee